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HUMPHREYS’ 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR 

OR 

FAMILY ADVISER 


IN THE USE OP 

HUMPHREYS’ HOMEOPATHIC REMEDIES, 

BY 

F. HUMPHREYS, M. D. 


Formerly Professor of Institutes of Homeopathy, Pathology and Medical Practice in dj 
Homeopathic Medical College of Pennsylvania at Philadelphia; Author of 
Dysentery and its Homeopathic Treatment; Cholera and its Ho¬ 
meopathic Treatment; and Prover of Apis Mellifica, 

Plantago Major, etc., etc. 


REVISED AND ENLARGED EDITION. 


This Book is also Published in 

FRENCH, GERMAN, SPANISH AND PORTUGUESE. 

New York: 

HUMPHREYS’ HOMEOPATHIC MEDICINE CO, 

* e UZHz 







/ 


f 





Entered according: tc Act of Cong.-c.'-s. :n the year 1924, *yf 
HUMPHREYS’ HOMEOPATHIC MEDICINE COMP4N't 
in the office of the Jukrarian of Congress at VVashintruou, 



Printed in U- S. A* 

J ULly'24 

©C1A800210 


PREFACE 


It zs now over thirty years since I commenced the experi¬ 
mentation and use of Combined Medicines, the results of 
which, in a popular, practical form, I present in this 
work. I waited long, perhaps too long, that I might not 
be accused of rashly offering crude or inmature Remedies ; 
and yet, remembering how little comparatively, one man 
can do in so wide a field, in even so long a period, I could 
wish the time longer, and the experience more ample. If 
it shall lead to greater precision in the use of medicine, 
and a more complete control over human disease and 
suffering, my labor will have been amply rewarded. The 
snatches of time for its production, taken from the exac¬ 
tions of large professional and business cares, must 
apologize for any want of unity or defects of style that 
may appear in its composition. 

The theme is new. Old-school medicines have been 
compounded or combined for centuries, and Potypharmacy 
has been the rule, as well as the opprobrium of its practi¬ 
tioners. The rule of Hahnemann was exact and rigorous 
‘—one medicine, in its highest attenuation, given once, 
and permitted undisturbed, to expend its action—formed 
the ideal of his Homeopathic practice. To this rule, the 
professor and the amateur, the adept and the satellite, 
were expected to conform. The choice of the medicine 
was to be made, not so much according to the physiol¬ 
ogical or pathological law of cure, as according to some 



II 


PREFACE. 


keynote , or fantastic aberration, alike of medicine and 
disease, the study of which seemed to some minds a 
psychological phantasmagoria. 

But practical men and practical medicine, with too 
little, perhaps, of faith and too little, certainty, of result, 
unwilling to attribute all failure to the bluntness of their 
own perceptions, hesitating to follow the shadow of the 
master, when their footsteps so often fell on dead men’s 
bones, turned aside to seek more substantial footing in 
larger doses, frequent repetitions and alternation of rem¬ 
edies. The success became as sure, the labor less, and 
the way plainer. But what then becomes of the ideal 
philosophic rule—the one medicine, the one dose, and 
undisturbed action? It is buried, in a sea, so deep, as to 
be practically fathomless. 

But what becomes of the similia, the law of cure, when 
modes so different, paths so apparently divergent, lead to 
the same goal? Simply this: The Law of Cure is wider 
than we know. Not to so narrow channels as we have 
believed, are the waters of this Bethesda confined. Simple 
and childlike may his faith be, who believes that in his 
method alone is the cup of healing; a deeper knowledge 
and wider experience would have placed it in the hands 
of others as well. 

From alternated to combined medicines the transition 
is easy. The old rule of faith and practice is gone. A 
wider field is opened and we are invited to enter. Shall 
the similia in one, or the similia in several be accepted; 
shall the similia be the occasional aberration, or the 
physiological counterpart? So we seek out the law of 
combination, and adapt our specific similia to the 
Pathological individuality. 

With all progress, and every improvement, there comes 
the wail of dissatisfaction and reproach. These they say 


PREFACE. 


/n 


are avoiders of honest toil, scalers of Heaven’s walls with¬ 
out needful faith or purity, who seek by a broader road 
the Divine way to mysteries of life; indolent ones who, 
while they neither toil nor spin, yet assume the gorgeous 
array of Solomon. But what is progress but a lessening 
of human toil! From the beginning, every improvement 
diminished somebody’s work; made some hours of toil 
superfluous, so that this reproach becomes a praise. If it 
gives increased certainty of result, all the better. 

That some obscurity should overshadow the pathway 
that leads from disease out into the highway of health, 
seems inevitable. To reduce this obscurity to its min- 
imum, should be the tireless aim of scientific effort. 
Should there be but one dim path, we should seek to 
render it plainer, less devious, and less obstructed. Should 
there be many, we will reverently uncover our heads, and 
be thankful. Multitudes having gone along in the simple, 
open path of specific medicine, have been led to the 
Elysium of health, and with gratitude acknowledge the 
blessing. It is to afford additional light to the thousands 
yet in the path, that these pages are written. Additional 
observation and experience will doubtless suggest improve¬ 
ments, giving simplicity to the direction, and certainty to 
the result, yet such as it is, it is offered in confidence that 
it will afford substantial aid to thousands. 

As this work is designed for the use of the People, its 
most conspicuous feature should be its entire adaptation to 
their wants. It must give such counsel and advice as 
they need in their quest, not merely for the recovery of 
lost health, but for the preservation and improvement of 
health. The latter—the preserving of health—may be 
really more important than the former, though it be an 
often overlooked and sometimes thankless task, for, “who 
thanks you for what you prevent?” 


IV 


PREFACE. 


So in these pages much space is given to the study of 
hygiene—air, water, food, drainage, the nutritive value of 
different foods, and the best manner of cooking and serv¬ 
ing them. The use of baths, stimulants, beverages; the 
nursing and care of children, of the sick, the invalid, the 
aged and infirm. To these there is added in their appro¬ 
priate chapters and under proper headings a simple 
description of the various diseases most commonly met 
and most likely to be successfully treated either at their 
beginning or throughout their course by domestic practice. 
Then there follows such plain and simple directions for 
nursing, food, and the use of the Remedies, as are most 
readily followed and most likely to result favorably. The 
whole intent is to make the way so plain that even the 
most inexperienced of intelligent persons may follow it 
without confusion or error. 

This method could only have been made so plain by 
the use of these Remedies. In no other way could the 
liability or danger of perplexity and error have been 
avoided. There is no seeking among many medicines for 
the right one; no devious or intricate mode of prepara¬ 
tion, before administering; all is prepared as wanted, and 
the one requirement is to simply follow the simply 
directions. 

F. HUMPHREYS, M. D. 

July, 1889 


INTRODUCTION 


Any deviation from the normal standard of health con¬ 
stitutes disease through a slight impairment or derange¬ 
ment of some bodily function, a failure of the organism 
to respond promptly to its environment, or an organic 
lesion with extensive alteration or destruction of tissue. 
All acute diseases tend towards recovery, and it is the 
office of medicine to assist and promote, through their 
action on the cells and the tissues of the body, such 
recovery. Chronic disease is a condition where through 
long continued action against morbid influences, the 
resistance of the cells and tissues have become greatly 
impaired, and deranged function and altered tissue have 
resulted. 

It is not unfrequently observed that several members 
of a family are subject to some peculiar disease or morbid 
condition, and that father and son, or mother and 
daughter, in turn, are subject to the same disease. Some¬ 
times nearly a whole family die in the course of a few years 
from consumption; sons are afflicted with gout, salt rheum 
or rheumatism as their father was before them; daughters 
with cancer as their mothers or grandmothers were. The 
impression hence generally prevails that these diseases 
are inherited. The fact of disease frequently appearing 
under such circumstances is undisputed. It is quite 
certain that as each parent imparts to its offspring its 
own type and peculiarities, its tendency to be lean or 



24 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


corpulent, large or small, delicate or stout, so with the 
bodily organization there may be a tendency to assume or 
take on diseased action in a certain form. 

It is now generally conceded that disease is not trans¬ 
mitted through heredity from parent to child but in every 
case is caused by the introduction of some disturbing 
element into the human system throwing it out of har¬ 
mony with its environment. It is not denied that there 
exists a certain susceptibility and tendency in families, 
making them more liable to contract certain diseases. 
This is as far as we can go, and should banish all fear 
that the child must necessarily inherit the disease of the 
parent. 

It is not usually difficult to arrest such tendencies in 
the bud, by the appropriate use of Homeopathic Med¬ 
icines; and they only require to be understood and 
guarded against by proper habits and medication, in order 
to ward off danger from such sources. The medicines 
and measures of prevention against such diseases will be 
indicated in their appropriate sections. 

Disease may be classed as acute, sub-acute, or chronic, 
a purely arbitrary distinction, one condition gradually 
merging into the other. It may appear as a functional 
derangement, or as an organic lesion. 

It may be questioned if any impairment of function can 
long exist without producing an organic lesion. Modern 
medicine has made immense strides during the past 
fifteen or twenty years in our knowledge of the causation 
of disease, through the patient researches of eminent 
medical scientists both in this country and abroad. 

Modern medicine deals largely with the infinitesimal. 
The large number of diseases we now know to be caused 
by micro-organisms and the still larger number that by 
analogy we infer to be so caused, leave a comparatively 


INTRODUCTION. 


23 


small number, the causation of which is still problematical. 

Micro-organisms or microbes are the smallest organisms 
discernable under the microscope. Micro-organisms that 
cause disease are the protozoa—the lowest form of animal 
life, and the bacteria, the lowest form of plant life. The 
bacteria that cause disease are known as pathogenic 
bacteria. The different forms of bacteria are: 

Cocci, .... Small dots or spheres 
Bacilli, . . . Small straight rods 
Spirilla, . . Small spiral rods 

The bacilli are by far the most common. Bacteria vary 
greatly in size, the bacillus of influenza being the smallest. 
There are probably bacteria so small as to be invisible to 
our most powerful lenses. 

Micro-organisms or germs of disease may obtain 
entrance into the body through a wound, injury, or 
abrasion to the skin or through the lining membranes of 
the organs. Again certain germs may be absorbed 
through the free surfaces of the skin or of the mucous 
membranes. The natural orifices such as the nose, mouth 
and air passages are a favorite place of lodgement. In¬ 
vading the organs and tissues of the body they may be 
localized and by their disturbing activities give rise to 
impairment of function and destruction of tissue, and by 
the poisons they secrete and pour into the circulation, 
produce toxic or poisonous effects throughout the entire 
system, as in the case of diphtheria, and tetanus, or 
“lock jaw”. The germs may enter directly in the circu¬ 
lation, attack, modify, or destroy the cells in the blood 
vessels and lymphatic ducts and glands. They may be 
transported to distant parts of the body causing alterations 
and organic lesions of tissues. Malaria and yellow fever 
are instances where germs or parasites cause the destruc¬ 
tion of blood corpuscles in the first instance, followed by 


26 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


serious changes in the organs and tissues. Germs have a 
specific action on certain tissues. The typhoid bacilli for 
the small intestines, the tubercle bacilli for the lungs and 
air passages, although different varieties of the tubercle 
bacillus may be found in almost any organ or structure of 
the body. 

Exposure to the bacteria of infection does not nec¬ 
essarily imply that the individual exposed will always 
contract the specific disease. We are constantly exposed 
to various infections without contracting disease. While 
pneumonia is prevalent it is estimated that one in every 
three persons will be found carrying the bacteria of 
pneumonia in their nostrils or air passages. We constantly 
breathe in the bacilli of tuberculosis and bacteria of 
pneumonia yet how few thus exposed ever contract either 
of these diseases. Infection depends upon (a) the number 
of germs taken into the system, (b) their virulence, 
(c) the resistance of the individual. The number of 
bacteria required to infect varies quite largely with the 
specific micro-organism, in this respect there being a 
great range in their virulence. The virulence of germs of 
the same species vary greatly as to the season of the year, 
the locality and the stage of the epidemic. In epidemics 
the worst cases usually are the earliest ones, gradually the 
the epidemic dies away with fewer and lighter cases. 
There is a great degree of variation in the individual 
resistance, not only in the natural resistance, but in the 
impaired resistance caused by fatigue, care, worry and 
exhaustion, or insufficient nutrition. 

Micro-organisms or bacteria abound everywhere. The 
animal that lives, the plant that grows, the processes of 
fermentation, putrefaction, decay and death, our own 
comfort and well being, are all dependant upon bacteria. 
Among the countless myriads of beneficent micro-organ- 


INTRODUCTION. 


27 


isms there are others, pathogenic organisms, the producers 
of disease. Many of these latter, ever present, are ready 
wherever the appropriate conditions exist, to propagate, 
multiply, and exert their baneful effects. Fortunately 
these pathogenic micro-organisms cannot develope outside 
the body, except in certain favorable media, as in milk. 
Light and aif are death and destruction to them. The 
range in temperature in which they may thrive is exceed¬ 
ingly limited. Birds or fowls are not subject to anthrax, 
the normal temperature of the blood being too high for 
the bacilli to exist; but by cooling the blood sufficiently, 
fowls may be innoculated. The question of immunity is 
of vast importence. After the invasion of the system by 
micro-organisms, and after the disturbance caused by 
their presence has subsided, there follows a period of im¬ 
munity against further attack by this specific organism. 
This immunity may extend from a few weeks or months, 
to years, differing as to the individual and to the specific 
disease. This immunity differs as to the species and 
race. Carnivorous animals are not subject to glanders, 
anthrax or tuberculosis, as are herbivorous. Glanders 
and anthrax are rarely contracted by man. The Negro and 
Indian are very susceptible to tuberculosis and smallpox, 
but are largely immune to malaria and yellow fever. 

The blood consists of red and white corpuscles swim¬ 
ming in a liquid plasma or serum. The white corpuscles 
are called Leucocytes, and play a most important part in 
disease. They have been justly termed the “police or 
scavengers” of the system. They possess the power of 
devouring and destroying micro-organisms. Wherever a 
wound or abrasion occurs, or at whatever point the organ¬ 
ism is invaded by the germs of disease—there you will 
find the white corpuscles or leucocytes fighting valiantly 
*or the preservation of the organism. Diseased action 


28 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


is followed by a great increase in the number of white 
corpuscles in the immediate tissues. Pus or matter is 
composed of dead Leucocytes—which have been over¬ 
powered by the micro-organisms or their toxins. 

After the first invasion of the system by micro-organ¬ 
isms the cells of the body soon acquire the power of 
protecting themselves by producing anti-bodies or anti¬ 
toxins to neutralize the toxins produced by the invading 
micro-organisms. After the micro-organisms have been 
destroyed and their toxic or poisonous products eliminated 
from the system, the cells for a long time still go on 
producing in a lessening degree an antitoxin and it is 
this surplus antitoxin that constitutes immunity. 

This immunity to disease in the individual or race is 
called the natural immunity. Active acquired immunity is a 
condition that exists after the disease caused by the 
specific micro-organism having spent its force, the 
system has acquired an immunity against further attacks 
from this specific micro-organism. 

Passive acquired immunity is a condition caused by the arti¬ 
ficial introduction into the system of a serum, vaccine, 
drug, or chemical, whereby the system is fortified against 
attacks of a specific micro-organism. 

There is another class of disorders known as septic 
poisoning, or auto intoxication, caused by the absorption 
of broken down tissues or the product of putrefaction in 
the glands or intestines; articles of food undergoing the 
process of decay taken into the alimentary canal produce 
ptomaines and their attendant symptoms. The liver is a 
large gland; one of its principal functions being to de- 
intoxicate or purify the blood as it flows through the liver 
from the alimentary system to the heart. All these 
changes are chemical, but due primarily to the action of 
bacteria. The feeling of malaise, headache, or “out of 


INTRODUCTION. 


29 


sorts’’, the “liver out of order”, is generally due to the 
failure of the de-intoxicating power of the liver and 
necessary eliminating glands. 

Germs of disease obtain entrance to the system largely 
by means of the fingers, food, and flies. Unclean hands 
and dirty fingernails are probably responsible for a large 
proportion of infectious diseases. Underneath the finger¬ 
nails, unless properly cared for, we have a most ideal 
condition for the culture of pathogenic bacteria. This fact 
is so clearly recognized that no surgeon will operate until 
the hands and fingernails have been thoroughly washed 
and sterilized and then protected by rubber gloves. This 
should also be the case with nurses handling patients 
where there is the least danger of spreading infection. 
Personal contact is the most common way in which 
disease is spread. 

Bacteria requires moisture in order to live; exposed to 
the air they soon dry and loose their vitality or power for 
doing harm: hence, the sputa, in which the bacteria 
swarm, live, and propagate is a constant source of danger. 
The spray thrown off in coughing or sneezing, carry germs 
that may be inhaled by persons near the patients. Realiz¬ 
ing that the secretions of the throat, mouth, nostrils, and 
decaying teeth, are the breeding places, and swarm with 
bacteria, it should be the duty of every one to cleanse 
these passages with antiseptic solutions or sprays every 
morning and night. Four grains of menthol to an ounce 
of liquid vaseline is an excellent antiseptic spray, used 
with an atomizer. 

In recent years attention has been directed to human 
beings as the carriers of disease. After an attack of infec¬ 
tious disease, and after the apparent recovery of the 
patient, there persists in the secretions of the patient for a 
longer or a shorter period, the bacteria of infection. 


30 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


rendering him a source of danger, and capable of spread¬ 
ing infection. This is especially so of typhoid fever 
patients. It is now recognized that the bacilli of typhoid 
exist and go on multiplying in the glands of the patient, 
especially in the gall bladder and duct, for weeks, months, 
and in some cases, years. Cases have been recorded, as 
in the case of “Typhoid Mary”, now become classic, 
where the subject never has had the fever, and yet the 
secretions swarm with germs capable of imparting the 
disease to others. 

Streams and wells may become polluted. In country 
districts this is a common source of typhoid infection. 
Running water soon frees itself of microbes; not so wells 
or stagnant pools, microbes persisting in these for a long 
time. The bacteria of typhoid has been found in ice. 
The physical process of freezing will eliminate 90% of the 
germs, and it is doubtful if the few remaining will possess 
sufficient power to do harm. In milk we find the most 
ideal conditions for the culture of micro-organisms. In 
this medium they live, thrive and multiply. An eminent 
American physician has said, that there is no more 
reason for drinking raw milk than there is for eating raw 
meat, and there is a great deal of truth in his statement. 
Milk is a most prolific source of infection. To diminish the 
danger in drinking milk, it should be pasteurized; that is, 
heated to 145° Fhr. for a space of twenty minutes. This 
will not impair the taste, and will kill most germs. To 
make milk absolutely safe, it should be brought to the 
boiling point or sterilized, but as this is objectionable for 
many reasons, and as its nutrient value is thereby 
greatly reduced, it is done only in special cases. 

Articles of food may convey disease, through the con¬ 
taminating action of flies, other insects, and worms; as 
for instance in typhoid and cholera. Spoiled fruit and 


INTRODUCTION. 31 

vegetables, fish and meat undergoing the process of decay, 
produce ptomaine poisoning. 

To the agency of flies, insects, and worms may be 
attributed a large class of diseases. The common house fly, 
musca domest ., is generally spoken of as the typhoid fly, 
owing to its frequency in spreading the germs of typhoid, 
carrying the germs from infected matter and depositing 
them on articles of food. During the Spanish-American 
War, the prevalence of typhoid fever at Chickamauga 
and other camps, was attributed mainly to flies carry¬ 
ing the germs of infection. The house fly cannot bite, 
but the stable fly can bite savagely, and has been held 
responsible, through its bite, for causing disease. Fleas, 
through their bite, cause bubonic and pneumonic plague, 
having previously bitten infected rats. The tsetze fly 
of Africa will carry a germ from the crocodile to horses 
and cattle, devastating whole sections of country, and 
producing in man, the ‘ ‘Sleeping Sickness”, which usually 
terminates fatally. The Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, 
a fever in which the mortality is very high, is conveyed 
from infected squirrels by a tick. Among diseases caused 
by worms—leaving out the large number of intestinal 
worms—we may mention the hook worm disease, a verit¬ 
able scourge in our Southern States and a gradually 
increasing one. Trichina, caused by small spiral worms, 
inhabiting infected pork and beef, is a condition frequent¬ 
ly found among those who eat uncooked pork or beef. 

The human body is a vast aggregate of cells. Each 
lives its own independent life, is born, grows, fulfills its 
function, dies and decays. Each fills its place, and does its 
own special work in the general economy of the body. 
All work together for the general good. Mutability, or 
change, is a fundamental factor of life. All structures of 
the body are in state of constant change; even the bony 


32 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


structure, seemingly so inert, show continual growth amZ 
decay. Life, taken from a physiological standpoint, is 
the summation of the life of the cells. 

In the cells and tissues of the body resides the latent 
recuperative and resisting power to overcome disease. The 
two factors are the strength and virulence of the invading 
force on the one side, and the susceptability and natural 
or acquired resistance on the other. 

Therapeutics, or the use of remedial agents for the 
prevention or cure of disease, employs the methods of 
Serum Therapy, Vaccine Therapy, or Chemo-Therapy; in 
other words the use of a serum, vaccine, drug, or chemical. 
An immunized serum, an antitoxin, introduced into the 
system will neutralize an equal volume of toxin or poison- 
i.e., 1000 units of diphtheritic antitoxin will neutralize 
and render harmless 1000 units of toxin or the poison of 
diphtheria; and so in regard to tetanus, hydrophobia, and 
all diseases where serums are used. The use of vaccines, 
as in the case of smallpox so generally and successfully 
used for many years, is now being successfully used as a 
means of prevention in typhoid fever and other diseases. 
In these cases of vaccination a slight modified form of the 
disease is produced, and the systems brought into a con¬ 
dition of active acquired immunity . Vaccines are preventive; 
serums neutralize the existing toxin or poison: while 
drugs and chemicals are relied upon as curative agents. 

Ehrlich, the great German authority, has stated that 
for every specific disease there is a specific remedy. 

It is a recognized fact that there is an elective affinity, 
as it is termed, between certain cells and tissues of the 
body and certain drugs and medicines. 

From the beginning of medical knowledge it has been 
known that particular drugs affect particular organs and 
tissues, and of later years, that small doses frequently 


INTRODUCTION. 


83 


administered are more efficacious than the same amount 
administered as a single dose. The days of drenching the 
system, and of large and powerful doses, are past. The 
evils of over-dosing, as practiced by our fathers, cannot 
well be over exaggerated. It requires but a small amount 
of the appropriate medicine to produce a great effect. 

As previously stated in the cells and tissues of the body 
there resides the latent power to resist and overcome 
disease, and it is the principle of medicine to aid, assist, 
and stimulate the cells and tissues to this end. Small 
doses "frequently repeated are found to be most efficacious 
as a means of stimulation and assistance. The appropri¬ 
ate remedy being administered, the system promptly 
responds unless the vitality has been so lowered that 
response is feeble or impossible. Or again the invasion of 
the disease may be so intense or prolonged that the 
powers of resistance are ineffectual. 

Hahnemann was the first to formulate a law of cure 
SIMILIA SIMILIBUS CURANTUR, or “like cures like”. 

This law is the corner stone of the foundation upon 
which the practice of homeopathy rests. While many 
practitioners of homeopathy have carried it to absurd and 
rediculous extremes, it remains to-day as the sanest and 
safest guide to the practice of medicine. By the means of 
proving the action of drugs on the human being in health, 
homeopaths have arrived at the symptomatic action of the 
drug and have applied the knowledge thus gained, to the 
corresponding condition where manifested in disease. 
This is a perfectly logical deduction based on correct 
scientific principles. 

It remained to Dr. F. Humphreys after many years of 
patient research and practice of medicine to combine 
remedies having certain specific actions to meet certain 
specific diseases- 


u 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


These preparations so largely and favorably known as 
Humphreys’ Homeopathic Remedies have now been in 
general use for sixty years. Gradually but surely they 
have made their way through their proved worth and 
merit throughout most of the civilized countries of the 
world, and they have been to many, a friend and aid in 
times of distress and disease. 

In the pages following will be found a brief description 
and a guide to the treatment of the diseases commonly 
occurring. 


INFECTION—CONTAGION. 

A large number of diseases that inflict humanity are 
infectious; many of them are contagious. There appears 
to be confusion in the minds of many intelligent persons 
in regard to these terms, and some physicians are not 
clear enough in their use. 

All contagious diseases are infectious, but all infections 
are not contagious. It would be much better to use the 
term “communicable diseases”, as having a broader 
significance. 

Infection is the introduction into the body of micro¬ 
organisms where, by multiplication and reproduction and 
by the toxins or poisons they secrete, they give rise to 
constitutional symptoms indicative of their presence. 

Contagion is the direct transference of a disease germ 
or micro-organism to another person by direct personal 
contact. The infection may be localized in certain 
tissues, as in the cases of Diphtheria, Erysipelas, Typhoid 
or Pneumonia; or bacteria may be carried by the circula¬ 
tion to distant organs or tissues and there produce local 
diseased conditions, as in pneumonia, typhoid, gonorrhea. 


INTRODUCTION. 


34a 


puerperal or lying in fever. The toxins secreted and 
poured into the system produce certain symptoms com¬ 
mon to all infectious diseases, as chill or fever with rapid 
pulse, headache and restlessness, acting upon the heart 
find nervous system. 

Auto-Intoxication, a condition occurring quite fre¬ 
quently, is caused by the presence in the circulation of 
toxins, ptomaines and the products of decay and dis¬ 
integration which act on the heart and nervous system. 
A disease is epidemic when starting from a few persons it 
spreads rapidly throughout the community until it is 
checked or looses its virulence. It is said to be endemic 
when confined to a certain locality showing no disposition 
to spread beyond its boundaries. At times endemic 
diseases “flare up” and become more active and virulent, 
overspreading their natural boundaries, become epidemic. 




* 


JaTSTO-XEIISnEi. 

Medical Hxgienje consists essentially in the prevention of 
disease by the removal of its avoidable causes. It embraces 
various influences operating upon the physical condition of 
individuals and communities, either by promoting theii 
material good, or by preventing their deterioration. It has, 
therefore, for its object, the preservation of health, by 
means which contribute to the most perfect development of 
the body, and which are best calculated to render Life more 
vigorous, decay less rapid, and Death more distant. 

'While our observations on Hygiene are necessarily 
fragmentary and restricted, they are still very important^ 
and their adoption by those who refer to these pages cannol 
fail to be fraught with advantage. The rudiments of Medi* 
cal Hygiene should be taught and rendered attractive h 
schools, until, as a result of the education of the masses, s 
solid groundwork is laid for the promotion of the Public 
Health By means of this general education, as well as by 
the help of the public press, and popular medical work*, 
the general knowledge of the causes of disease may be so 
augmented, as to prevent much existing suffering, and to 
diminish unnecessary waste of human life. 

The importance of this science of Medical Hygiene will 
oe appreciated when we state that it embraces, among 


36 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR 


others, the following subjects, all of which have direct and 
indubitable relation to Health and Life, viz: 


I. Food. 

II. Beverages. 
IIL Water. 

IV. Air. 


VII. Exercise. 
VHI. Clothing. 


YI. Healthy Dwellings. 


Y. Sunlight. 


IX. Bathing. 

X. The Influence of Occupation upon health. 


FOOD. 


1. The circumstances regulating its use. 

2. The Nutritious Values of different kinds of Food. 

3. The methods of preparing it. 

For what do we require food? For two chief purposes 
—to produce and maintain the various tissues of the 
body while fulfilling their respective vital functions; and, to 
generate heat, without which life would cease. For these 
ends different forms of food are required. This has been 
very happily illustrated by a comparison between the steam- 
engine and the human body. Just as, in a steam-engine (1) 
the metal framework and (2) the coals which heat the water 
into steam which sets the metal machine into motion; so 
there are, in the body, (1) the tissues and (2) the fuel. The 
bony framework, the skeleton, is moved by muscles, which 
in term are set in action by the nerves. These correspond 
to the metallic portions of the engine, which are not therm 
selves consumed, but wear out and need repair. The fuel 
of th? body, like that of the steam-engine, is hydrocarbon- 
aceous; i. e., it consists of hydrogen and carbon, whici 


HYGIENE.—FOOD. 


37 


readily unite with oxygen. And, like the coals or fuel 
which, though inanimate, still gives motion to the engine; 
so the Vegetable World, practically without motion, yet 
stores up the material which renders motion in animals 
possible. For, while animals, as the result of the com* 
bustion of their food, produce carbonic acid gas; vegetables 
deoxidize, or eliminate, this carbonic acid—which is very 
necessary for their own life—and store up carbonaceous 
material, and give off free oxygen, upon a supply of 
of which animal life is absolutely dependent. Thus the 
Vegetable and the Animal Worlds live side by side; each 
necessary to the other. The Animal could exert no force 
without oxygen, which he obtains from the Vegetable world; 
the Vegetable would perish without carbonic, acid which is 
produced for it by the Animal World. 

Then, again, just as the plant takes the carbonic acid, 
and returns an equivalent in oxygen—so it, also, takes from 
water a supply of hydrogen, and gives back a supply of 
oxygen. 

Thus, from these two— carbon and hydrogen —are built 
up starch , sugar and faz —the hydro-carbonaceous elements 
which essentially constitute our food—the equivalent of the 
coal in the steam-engine. 

Now, as to the tissues of the body—which correspond to 
the metal framework and working-parts of the steam 
engine—they all contain an essential element known aa 
nitrogen . And nitrogen has this peculiarity, that, when 
combined with carbon and hydrogen, they do not as readily 
combine with oxygen, as they would do if nitrogen was 
absent. It is due to this Quality of nitrogen, that the tissues 


38 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


of the body, being themselves nitrogenized, are not con¬ 
sumed by the heat of oxidizing processes going on within 
them. The metal-work of the engine is not consumed by 
fire from the oxidizing coal; and, in a state of health, the 
1 tissues of the body are not consumed by the heat produced 
by the oxidizing hydro-carbonaceous food. 

It is well that the reader should grasp this broad law 
fully; for this division of foods is the basis of all that we 
know about what a dietary should consist of. It should 
contain hydro-carbonaceous material for the working of the 
body; and a sufficiency of nitrogenized materia] for the 
growth and repair of the tissues. Besides this, phosphorus , 
for the nervous system, iron for the blood, hydrochloric acid 
for the gastric juice; and alkalies for the liver, are requisite 
in limited quantities. From the salt (Chloride of Sodium) 
of our food we get at once the flavoring agent acceptable to 
the palate; and the hydrochloric acid for the gastric juice, 
and the soda for the formation of bile-salt in the liver. For 
health, various salts, of potash , soda and lime are needed, 
which are furnished in the different articles of our dietary— 
and, without which we should seriously suffer in health, as, 
for example, in scurvy, caused by a deprivation of vege¬ 
tables, and cured by vegetable diet with magic celerity. In 
addition to the foregoing, also, we must not overlook spices 
and condiments which, aside from being agreeable to the 
palate, serve to excite and sustain the appetite and prevent 
boo much disengagement of gas in tne alimentary canaj 
during the process of digestion and assimilation. Such art, 
the chief constituents of our food. 

It is interesting, now, to se* wbat be~~^«s of thesf 




39 


different elements of food, in the process of digestion—and 
to wliat uses they are severally put by the body. Hydro¬ 
carbons are quickly disposed of; a certain surplusage being 
stored up, in the form of fat, on which the body can live in 
times of starvation; and the average amount of this garnered 
store is found to be equal to about ten days’ combustion—-J 
or, in other words, the body can—-if deprived of food—live 
upon itself for ten days. Starch , by the action of the saliva 
and pancreas (“sweet-bread”) juice, is converted into sugar; 
and is stored up, in the liver, from each meal, as glycogen^ 
which is given off again from the liver, gradually, as the 
body requires it, and is oxidized, or burnt to maintain the 
heat of the body, and to generate force. Starch , sugar and 
fat, then, as we have before said are the hydro-carbonaceous 
elements of our food. 

In addition to these, must be remembered also, the nitro - 
genized, or albuminoid elements of food—equally requisite 
for tissue growth and repair; and also producing in their 
oxidization a certain amount of heat. Albumen—a complex 
substance chemically—contains carbon, hychogen, some 
oxygen, and its essential characteristic nitrogen, with a little 
sulphur —and is largely found in the Vegetable World. All 
seeds contain it. The white of all eggs (birds, reptiles or 
fishes) is very pure albumen. It is found, as caseine, ini 
milk, cheese and the leguminous plants; and as the muscular 
portions of the animal body, the viscera and skin: and when 
swallowed, is digested mainly in the stomach, and passes 
into the blood, from whence it reach the tissues. The nitro¬ 
gen-element of albuminoids, however, prevents their ready 
oxidization. Their waste and surplusage is burnt up by the 


40 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


liver—the results being the bile acids, and the solid I 
(lithates and urea) of the urine. Now if the liver does its 
work well—all goes well—; but, if it oxidizes, or burns, 
these albuminoids insufficiently, then the blood becomes 
sur-charged with bile-salts; and biliousness and gout result. 
Therefore it is, that, in the treatment of these diseases, the 
patient should be restricted in the use of the albuminoid 
elements of food, to the lowest point consistent with tissue- 
wants. For, with a large number of persons, it is a matter of 
the greatest importance to avoid these albuminous elements 
in their food. Moreover, the amount of albuminoid matter 
required for the repair of the tissues of the body, to meet 
its daily wear and tear, is really very small. Physiologists 
assure us that it does not call for anything like the amount 
of meat which is usually consumed by most persons. Where 
the system has been much reduced by acute disease, as in 
fever, a liberal dietary is required for rebuilding the tissues 
■—the appetite is then ravenous and the digestion good. 
Just as children, while rapidly growing, require a dietary in 
which meat forms a large part; so the convalescent from 
fever must have a diet list rich in albuminoids, in order to 
repair the wasted frame. But, aside from these exceptions, 
our food is rich in albuminoids beyond our absolute wants 
—a fact to be borne in mind in the choice of food, either 
for those in health or in disease. 

Health may even be restored by the use of proper food, 
as sickness is often induced from the want of it- While it 
is impossible to specify for each individual case; yet general 
principles may be laid down; and indications given for the 
kinds of food best adapted to the several classes mentioned 


HYGIENE.-GENERAL GlETAHY. 4S 

Each period of life lias its most appropriate food, so has 
each season of the year and each habit of constitution 02 
body, and that which is proper for one is often quite im¬ 
proper, and sometimes even injurious to another. The 
distinction is based upon chemico-vital wants of the system, 
at different periods of life, and under varying or varied 
conditions of the living body. To be more particular: 

Supplementary Diet oe Infants. —The best and most 
natural food is the milk of the mother. Even if this only 
in part supplies the want of the child, it is better to retain 
it, as in case of sickness of the infant, it furnishes a 
precious reserve to be supplied in no other way. Cows 
milk is the most usual substitute, a^d should at first be 
diluted by adding one-third of water, and slightly sweet¬ 
ened. If milk is to remain some time during warm weather, 
it should be first heated to prevent too rapid change. Great 
care should be taken that the nursing bottle be perfectly 
ilean and sweet; and food which has been standing, or is in 
danger of having been deteriorated, must on no account be 
given. Better make that which you know to be sweet and 
fresh, than to assume a risk. After some weeks the milk 
may be given without water, and as the first teeth appear, 
about the fourth or sixth month, the diet should become 
more varied and liberal; a well made panada, diluted milk, 
sweetened and thickened with a small quantity of arrow¬ 
root, sago or rusk, may be given with advantage. So barley- 
water, well-boiled gruel, weak chicken-tea or beef-tea, may 
be resorted to, taking care to give that on which the child 
seems to thrive best. Gradually, as the teeth appear, the 
child may be given the usual food from the table, in such 


42 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR 


quantities, and in sucli form, as the organism seems to 
require. 

The food of young children should contain all the 
elements, out of which the entire system is to be developed. 
There must be material for making every separate tissue of 
die entire man, and that in a condition to be as readily 
assimilated as possible. Milk from the cow meets all these 
conditions, having in itself all the elements required for the 
human body, and in their best proportions and condition. 
To this may be added barley, in its various forms, as of 
gruel, or in pap or cakes, in proportion to its age and devel¬ 
opment of teeth, the soup or flesh of beef or mutton. If 
the child is fat, heavy or stupid, it requires food containing 
more nitrates and phosphates—oat-meal, barley cakes, bean 
or pea soup, etc. If too lean and thin, it may be indulged 
in the more fattening carbonates, as fat meat, fine flour, 
butter, sugar, or puddings, etc. Thus the food may be 
varied as the needs of the child demand. 

Food for laboring men should in part be adapted to the 
nature of their labor, and to the season or temperature. 
But in general, as there is a large expenditure of musculai 
effort, the supply should be equal to the drain. Hence, 
beef, mutton, a proportion of pork, with vegetables, bread 
butter, ale or beer and cider, coffee and tea, all come in 
play and serve to restore the waste of tissue, and sustain 
the vigor of the body. 

Professional men, thinkers and students, whose expen¬ 
diture is chiefly of the brain, and whose bodily activity is 
necessarily limited, require such a supply of nutriment as 
Will measurably compensate for this waste. Hence, only e, 


HYGIENE.-GENERAL DIETARY. 


43 


moderate supply of beef, mutton, lamb, ale or beer, but a 
larger proportion of fish, venison, wild or tame fowl, oysters, 
fruits, nuts, raisins or figs; and of the fish, trout, blue-fish, 
Spanish mackerel, or other game fish, are best; oat-meal in 
its various forms, wheaten grits, and coarse wheat bread* 
should form the staple of diet. 

Food for fat, corpulent people.— In many families the 
tendency to corpulence and even obesity is constant. To 
many individuals it is the bane and dread of life. Yet such 
persons often use a diet directly tending to induce and 
aggravate the evil, while a proper diet always limits, and 
often removes the entire difficulty; for adipose tissue is only 
produced by certain fat-making articles of food. If these 
be avoided, the system may at the same time be nourished, 
and this accumulation of fat be prevented. The thanks of 
the world are due to Mr. Banting, an English gentleman, 
for having so clearly and forcibly elucidated this point in 
his pamphlet * on the subject, to which I refer those more 
particularly interested. I have had occasion to verify his 
observations in repeated instances. The fat-making articles 
are particularly butter, sugar, pork, milk, bread, potatoes, 
all sweet fruits, etc. Hence, the patient may eat all kinds 
of meat except pork—all kinds of fish except salmon, all the 
fruits except those containing sugar in large proportion 
and nearly all kinds of vegetables except potatoes. Now 
by choosing a diet containing largely the articles allowed, 
and only a very little of well-baked or toasted bread or 
potatoes, to which sour wine and tea and coffee may be 


Banting, on Corpulence 



44 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


added in moderation, and no butter, milk, or sugar, the 
most corpulent may reduce tlieir weight several pounds per 
month, while improving their general health, strength and 
mental vigor. And this may be continued to any reason¬ 
able limit. 

Very lean, spare people, by pursuing the opposite course, 
may increase their weight and embonpoint as well as theii 
comfort. They should use sugar, milk, butter, bread, 
potatoes, pork, fat meat, oysters and fruits, figs, grapes and 
fish. These heat and fat-producing elements will, unless 
the assimulation be very faulty, soon produce a change for 
the better, which may be extended at the pleasure of the 
individual. 

In cold leather, when people are exposed to low tem¬ 
peratures, the more fat and heat-producing articles are 
required. Of these, pork, buckwheat, Indian corn, wheat- 
bread, butter, milk, sugar, beer or ale, beans, peas, meat 
poultry, etc., are among the more prominent. 

In warm weather the more cooling, less heat-producing 
articles are appropriate. The quantity of meat of any kind 
should be moderate, and that principally the lean of beef, 
lamb, veal or poultry, and well-ripened fruits of all kinds, 
and of vegetables in their seasons, with a due proportion oi 
well-baked wheaten bread. Cooling drinks, acidulated 
with fruits, are in order and are very grateful and healthy. 
[ am convinced that a far more liberal use of fruits, in their 
seasons, would largely conduce to the health and welfare of 
our people. 

The diet op the aged should suit their individual con¬ 
dition. If fat, heavy and sleepy, inclined to sit and slumber, 


HYGIENE.— NUTRITIVE POOD-VALUES. 


4 b 


let them avoid fat meats, butter, sugar and fat-creating, 
elements of food; and, instead, eat of lean meat, brown 
bread, fish, nuts, vegetables and fruits, with the usual quan¬ 
tities of tea or coffee. Butter-milk is one of the most desir¬ 
able articles of habitual food for old people, as it prevents 
the transformation of the cartilaginous tissue, which enters 
into the formation of tendons, arteries, etc.—into bone, thus 
largely relieving the stiffness to which old age is liable, as 
well as ameliorating its infirmities in other ways. 

On the contrary, if they are lean, irritable, querulous ot 
sleepless, let them eat of fat meat, bread and butter, buck¬ 
wheat cakes, rice, milk, butter-milk, potatoes, etc., and the 
better nourishment of the system will manifest itself in im¬ 
proved sleep and disposition. 

2. The nutritive values of different hinds of food. 

In discussing this subject, we have to take into consider¬ 
ation not only the absolute amount of nutrition to be found 
in such kind of food; but, also, its ease of mastication and of 
digestion; and its flavor , which has so great an influence in 
determining its use, either in health, or in cases of illness. 

Animal Food. The structure of animal food is identical 
with that of the human body; hence nothing is required in 
addition to it in order to maintain life. Its chief charact¬ 
eristic, i. e. its large proportion of nitrogenous material 
has been already noticed on page 37. Undue importance 
is given by some persons to animal food, as if that 
alone really nourished the system, and supplied what is 
required for work and recovery of strength. No doubt it 


46 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


appeases more thoroughly than vegetable diet, an i 

satisfies longer, because it is concentrated nourishment, and 
the stomach retains this kind of food for a longer time than 
vegetable food. It is also easily cooked, and by some is 
more easily digested than vegetable; it increases the amount 
of fibrin, phosphates and other salts, and the number of red 
corpuscles in the blood; it produces firmness of muscle, it' 
increases the urinary secretion both in quantity and in 
amount of effete nitrogenous matter, thus necessitating the 
consumption of an increased quantity of fluid. Vegetable 
food has a tendency to ihcrease the deposition of fat. Mr. 
Banting found that by lessening the amount of vegetable 
diet he was enabled to reduce his corpulence. Physiological 
considerations and experience teach us that a mixed diet is 
best adapted to the requirements of the body; and that the pro¬ 
portion of animal food should be one-fourth, or rather 
>nore, of the total supply. 

Animal food comprises: 1. the different parts of animals, 
i e. meat; 2. eggs; 3. milk and its products. 

The flesh of young animals is more tender than that of 
old, but it is not so easily digested. The flesh of old 
animals, though nutritive, is often very tough. Young 
and quickly-fed animals have more water and fat in their 
flesh, whilst older and well-fed animals have flesh of a 
firmer touch and fuller flavor, and are richer in nitrogen. 
The former may be more delicate, the latter are more 
nutritious; animals of middle age, therefore, afford the most 
digestible and fullest flavored food. The larger the 
animal, the coarser the meat. The flesh of the female is 
v >ore finely grained and delicate than that of the male. 


HYGIENE.-NUTRITIVE FOOD-VALUES. 




‘During the breeding season flesh is unsuitable for food. 
The flesh of wild animals has less fat than that of well-fed. 
domestic animals, but it has more flavor. The character 
and flavor of the meat are much affected by the food eaten. 
The violent exercise taken before death makes the flesh of 
animals killed in the chase very tender. The removal of 
blood in slaughter, while it involves waste of nutritive ma¬ 
terial, improves the flavor of the flesh, and renders it more 
easy of preservation. Hanging the meat improves its 
tenderness, if it be kept after the rigor mortis has passed 
away. But the best meat may be rendered unwholesome 
by decomposition. 

Good meat, according to Dr. Letheby, has the following 
characteristics:— 

1. It is neither of a pale pink color nor of a deep purple 
tint; for the former is a sign of disease, and the latter 
indicates that the animal has not been slaughtered, but had 
died with the blood in it, or had suffered from acute fever. 

2. It has a marbled appearance, from the ramifications of 
little veins of fat among the muscles. 

3. It should be firm and elastic to the touch, and should 
scarcely moisten the fingers—bad meat being wet, and 
sodden, and flabby, with the fat looking like jelly or wet 
parchment. 

4. It should have little or no odor, and the odor should 
not be disagreeable, for diseased meat has a sickly, cadaver¬ 
ous smell, and sometimes a smell of physic. This is very 
apparent when the meat is chopped up and drenched with 
warm water. 

5. It should not liquefy or become very wet on standing 
for a day or so, but should, on the contrary, remain dry 
upon the surface. 


48 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


6. When dried at a temperature of 212° or thereabout, it 
should not lose more than from seventy to seventy-four per 
cent of its weight, whereas bad meat will often lose as much 
as eighty per cent. 

7. It should not shrink or waste much in cooking. 

And, in determining the values of different kinds of meat, 
it is essential to distinguish between fat and lean, since the 
nutritive elements of both, in a given joint or whole animal, 
will be proportionate to the combination of fat and lean. 

It may be well to state here the respective elements of 
fat and lean meat. Fat, deprived of water, consists of three 
elements only, viz: carbon, oxygen and hydrogen. When 
the fat is decomposed in the body these elements unite so 
that the carbon takes a part of the oxygen and becomes car¬ 
bonic acid, whilst the hydrogen takes another portion of the 
oxygen and becomes water—any deficiency in the quantity 
of oxygen for this purpose being supplied by the inspired 
air. 

Lean meat, entirely deprived of fat, consists of four ele¬ 
ments, viz: nitrogen, carbon, oxygen, and hydrogen. Be¬ 
sides the combination of the three latter elements (as already 
described in reference to fat) the nitrogen unites with the 
hydrogen in the formation of urea, and other compounds, 
which are thrown out of the system, by means of the kid¬ 
neys, etc., and ultimately are transformed into ammonia. 

Heat being generated by every chemical combination, it 
is evident that both fat and lean meat are lieat-generators— 
but as it is the lean meat which contains nitrogen, it is the 
lean meat and not the fat, which is the flesh-former. Still 
we cannot say that no fat is found in lean meat even,, lor a 


HYGIENE.-NUTRITIVE FOOD-VALUES. 


4? 


proportion of fat moving in tlie circulation must enter into 
and pass through the tissues of muscles, as of other parts of 
the body. 

Beef is popularly regarded, all the world over, as the 
most nutritive kind of meat—and this is in so far true that 
in the carcass of the ox there is a larger proportion of flesh 
or flesh-forming materials than in that of the sheep or hog. 
Being of closer texture than some other meats, there is—if 
bulk be the measure,—more nutritive value in a given quan¬ 
tity of beef. It is also the fullest of red-blood juices, so that 
Byron, seeing Moore eating an underdone beef-steak, asked 
>f he were not afraid of committing murder after such a 
meal. Maresclial’s analysis (in 100 parts) conclusively 
shows this: 

Ox Fowl Pig Sheep Calf 

Muscular fibre free from fat 25.0 24.9 24.3 23.4 22.7 


Fat. 2.5 1.4 6.0 3.0 2.9 

Water. 72.5 73.7 69.7 73.7 74.4 


The flavor of beef, moreover, is fuller and richer than that 
of other meats, so that a greater enjoyment, and sense of 
satisfaction is obtained from a less volume of that kind of 
flesh. 

The loss of weight in cooking beef is less than that of 
mutton, by reason of the greater solidity of the flesh and 
the smaller proportion of fat. The solid matter derived 
from a pound of meat without bone, boiled in the usual 
way, will average, (per cent) 28.4 on lean, 57.6 on fat beef, 
and 34.3 on mutton. 

The legs and shins are richer in gelatin than any othel 
joint of the body, whilst the largest proportion of oily fat> 
or of fat having the least decree of consistence, is found iu 




50 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


the flesh of the face. Hence, both of these parts are tope 
daily fitted for the making of soup. 

Ten grains of raw lean beef, when burnt in the body, 
produce heat sufficient to raise 3.66 lbs. of water one degree, 
Fah., which is equal to raising 2.829 lbs. one foot high. 

Dr. Beaumont’s experiments proved that the digestion of 
beef requires 2 3 | , to 3 hours. 

In many cases of illness, if properly cooked, it may be 
eaten with impunity; but in Enteric fever, and other diseases 
where the bowels are inflamed and tender, it produces, in 
its ordinary form, either as steak or as a cut from a joint, 
injurious effects. Even in the form of beef-tea it often in¬ 
creases the irritation, keeps up the fever, and aggravates 
(lie diarrhoea; consequently in. such cases it should, for the 
' nost part, be excluded from the diet list. As beef requires 
ionsiderable effort on the part of the stomach to convert if 
nto chyme, it is contra-indicated in acute maladies until 
convalescence has commenced, when by allowing the patient 
to extract the juice at first, and then swallow a few shreds 
of the meat, daily increasing the amount swallowed, the 
digestive organs will be finally won back to their normal 
condition and capability. Nevertheless, there is a form, 
: n which beef has been most beneficial. Administered in a 
;aw state, when finely divided and reduced to a pulp, it is 
veiy useful in some derangements of the stomach. Although 
not very palatable at first, a taste for it is soon acquired. 
In this form it has proved very valuable in Cholera infantum 
and Dysentery, when everything else failed. It should be 
prepared by scraping with a (silver) spoon, and seasoning 
with a little salt 


HYGIENE. -NUTRITIVE FOOD- VALUES. 




Veal. The delicacy, nutritive value and digestibility ol 
calf’s flesh depends very much upon the age at which the 
animal is killed, and the method of killing adopted. v eal 
is popularly known to be difficult of digestion, which fact is 
due to the difficulty of masticating it; not that its fibre is 
harder, but because it eludes the teeth. It is much easier 
of mastication when well-roasted or broiled, than when 
boiled, and when very young and well-fed; but it is not, 
after all said in its favor—a meat to be frequently indulged 
in. The time required for its digestion is about the same 
as for pork, and may extend to 5 hours, or more. 

Veal-broth is generally prepared from the fleshy part o) 
the knuckle. It is not very palatable; and as it does not 
contain the nutritious qualities of beef-tea or mutton-broth, 
it is scarcely advisable to introduce it into the sick-room, 
except for the sake of occasional variety. The lean of a 
lamb chop cut from the loin is often a morsel which tempts 
the flagging appetite. 

The bones of the calf at the early period of life contain 
but little earthy matter, and therefore yield a larger pro¬ 
portion of gelatine, etc., while the flavor of the juice is very 
delicate, and almost entirely free from fat. Hence the reason 
for selecting calves’ feet for the making of jelly and the value 
of this kind of food to invalids. The “sweet-bread” (pan¬ 
creas) of the calf is the most expensive part of any ruminating 
animal ordinarily eaten by man, far more so than its 
nutritive value or even its flavor warrants; but, after all, it 
is—whether boiled or fried—undoubtedly the most deli¬ 
cately flavored meat in use. 

Mutton, is popularly and correctly regarded as a lightei 


52 


IIOJIEOPATSIC MEJTTOK 


food than beef, and it has doubtless a more delicate flavor, 
less red-blood juices, a looser texture, and a larger propor¬ 
tion of fat. Although an agreeable and valuable food, it 
is not so well fitted as beef to sustain great exertion, but is 
rather adapted to those of sedentary habits, and quiet lives, 
including women and the sick. The actor Kean, who had 
a fancy of adapting the meat which he ate to the part which 
he was about to play, selected mutton for lovers, beef for 
murderers, and pork for tyrants. 

Mutton or mutton-broth is much to be preferred for 
delicate persons. Mutton-broth has less nutritive value than 
the broth of beef, but having a delicate flavor it is pi’e- 
ferred by many persons. It is, however, too rich in fat to 
be easily dig( sted, unless a large portion of that substance 
be first removed. Lean mutton, then, should be selected 
for making broth; the scrag of the neck is a suitable joint. 
When a patient is so far convalescent as to require solids, a 
mutton chop, properly cooked, is generally most suitable. 
Broiling should be preferred to frying, and to cook mutton 
chops nicely a clear fire is absolutely necessary. The chops 
should be sprinkled with salt and pepper, and placed over 
the fire for six or seven minutes. They should not be 
pricked, but should be frequently turned to insure their 
being thoroughly cooked. 

The most solid and leanest meat of the sheep is the leg; 
and the least solid and fattest portions are the loins, neck 
and breast. The loss on cooking mutton is greater than 
that on beef—but this varies much with the breed, and with 
the food of the sheep, being least when they are fed on cake 
or dry food. 


HYGIENE.-NUTRITIVE FOOD-VALUES. 


53 


Mutton requires from 3 to 3j hours for its digestion. 

Lamb, like mutton, varies in its nutritive, chemical and 
digestive qualities, in proportion to its age, breed and 
feeding. Its meat is deficient in strength; though it may 
be of more delicate flavor; it possesses more water and less 
nitrogenous matter. The time required for its digestion is 
less than that of the flesh of a grown sheep—viz, 2^ hours. 

Pork differs from beef and mutton, not in flavor only, but 
in the larger proportion of fat to lean flesh—and, owing to 
this great preponderance of fat, cannot be regarded as equal 
to beef or mutton in nourishing the system of those who 
make much muscular exertion. The greater hardness of its 
muscular fibre, also, renders its mastication so difficult that 
much of it is apt to be swallowed in pieces too large for 
immediate solution in the juices of the stomach. This is 
particularly true of those persons who habitually chew 
quickly, or have defective masticating powers, or who are 
careless in performing the act of mastication—classes em¬ 
bracing the old, and the young, and no inconsiderable 
proportion of those of intermediate ages. 

Five and a quarter hours is required for the digestion of 
roast pork (varying materially with the proportion of fat 
and lean, the age, breeding and condition of the pig, etc.)— 
but young pickled pork will probably be digested in about 
8 hours. 

There is, however, a greater danger in the use of pork 
than of any other kind of meat, since, so far as is known, it 
is more frequently diseased—and the nature of the disease 
is such as to be very injurious to man. “Measly” pork is 
known to haye produced fetal results to those who have im 


54 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


cautiously eaten it, and although the characteristics of the 
disease may be recognized by those who understand it, they 
are neither known to, nor observed by the great majority of 
the poorer classes. The terrible pest of the small Trichina 
spiralis worm, whicii penetrates the whole muscular system 
•—upwards of 50,000 having been computed to the square 
inch in the flesh of those who had died from eating the pork 
which harbored it—causing great suffering and death, is 
another possibility which needs to be kept in mind by the 
lovers of pork.' This diseased state may not be evident to 
the naked eye, so that, as a precaution, all pork should be well 
cooked. The instances of the disease which have occurred, 
have almost uniformly been after eating uncooked sausages, 
or ham—a habit not confined to Germany. 

The loss on cooking American pork is estimated at 50 
per cent, whilst on Dutch and Irish pork it is from 25 to 30 
per cent; the difference being due to the nature of the 
animals’ food in the respective countries. 

Bacon (that is, the sides of the pig which have been 
prepared by the removal of some of the lean flesh and ribs, 
and preserved by means of salt and salpetre) and Ham are 
hot without a certain nutritious value, and require less time 
than pork, for their digestion, according to their degrees and 
cooking. Three hours will suffice for their digestion. They 
occupy an exceptional position in relation to fat and 
cured meats. Fat bacon, taken with any substances that 
are rich in nitrogen, is very nourishing. It increases the 
nutritive value of eggs, poultry, peas, and beans. 

Venison is lean, dark-colored, and savory, licking more 
the character of game than of butcher’s meat. It is very 


HYGIENE.-NUTRITIVE FOOD-VALUES. 


55 


easily digested, and is therefore suitable to the dyspeptic 
and convalescent; its rich flavor may, however, constitute 
an objection to it, and if it has been kept too long before 
being cooked, it is very apt to produce diarrhoea. 

The Offal of animals, such as the skin, feet, tail, horns, 
head; lungs, liver, spleen, omentum, pancreas and heart, 
intestines and other internal organs, (forming, .generally | 
of the weight of animals killed for food, and not sold for 
meat)—still furnishes much good, nutritious alimentation for 
man. It possesses a greater proportion of the nitrogenous 
elements than the carcass, (though in a less nutritious form 
than in flesh, since it largely consists of gelatine and 
cliondrine); but less of fat. 

The Skin, so far as it is useful as food, is consumed in the 
form of gelatine, and is probably the greatest source of that 
article. Gelatine, which forms the basis of soup, is the 
nitrogenous principle of bones. They contain a considerable 
quantity of nutritive matter; but for its extraction they 
should be broken into small pieces and boiled for many 
hours, if possible in a “digester.” Although investigators 
have found that gelatine fails to nourish animals when given 
by itself, it is now a well-established fact that in combination 
with other substances it can be turned to account in the 
system as a force-producing element, thus acting as a 
protein compound. In the form of jelly, with or without 
wine, when not tough, it is readily digested, and serves to 
allay the feeling of emptiness and hunger when more nutri¬ 
tious food cannot be well taken. Being demulcent, and 
possessing no irritating qualities, it proves very useful in 
inflaminatory affections of the bowels. As ff is soothing 


56 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR 


and grateful it may be allowed where diarrhoea is not to be 
feared. In the preparation of gelatine jelly it is very 
essential to soak the gelatine, as procured in the shops, in 
jold water for some time. 

The tongue of all animals used as food is in request and 
regarded as a delicacy. Fat or lean, and eaten hot or cold, 
it forms a most agreeable food. Sheep’s head boiled or 
grilled, among the poorer classes; calves’ head , among the 
richer, have each their value; while ox head (having about 30 
per cent of rich meat and some solid fat) is much used as 
meat and in the form of soup—a convenient dish for the 
poor man’s family, since it yields good and cheap soup for 
the children, while the adults eat the solid meat. The pig’s 
head gives a much greater proportion of meat to bone than 
in the heads of other animals, because the pig lays up much 
fat about the jaws. The liver of the pig is a favorite dish 
with the poor; that of lamb, calf, or Strasburgli goose ( pate - 
de-fois-gras) by the rich, and, although not equal to flesh as a 
food, furnishes a considerable proportion of nutritive ele- 
ments. It is not, however, suitable for those whose digestive 
powers are feeble. The liver of all animals is said to in¬ 
fected by a parasite, which, however, is sufficiently evident 
to the naked eye, to be avoided—as it may be by cutting it 
in slices, examining it carefully and seeing that it is tho¬ 
roughly cooked—frying being the best method. The lungs , 
or as they are vulgarly termed “lights”, are eaten as a part 
of the “pluck”, or “fry” (omentum, pancreas and heart); 
and being composed almost exclusively of membranes and 
vessels, contain a high proportion of albumen and other 
nitrogenous matter. They are not, however, very easily 


HYGIENE.-NUTRITIVE FOOT 7ALTJES. 


57 


masticated or digested, and sliould be well cleaned, and 
any diseased portions removed. The omentum (consisting 
partly of membranes and vessels and partly of fat) is an 
agreeable addition to the otherwise lean fry. That from an 
old animal is not so tender or so readily masticated as from 
a young one, and it is desirable to masticate it well. A part 
of it is eaten as tripe. The pancreas (which, with the thyroid 
and sublingual glands, passes by the name of “sweetbread”) 
commands a very high price; contains a considerable pro¬ 
portion of water and some fat, and has a delicious flavor 
when properly prepared. That of the calf is the most 
esteemed, though that of the lamb is not infrequently 
substituted for it. 

The intestines are used as food by man in the preparation 
of sausages and “ black puddings ”, and as tripe. Tripe is 
prepared from the stomach and intestines, with the fatty 
structures attached thereto, of the ox and cow, and consists 
of two parts, viz. the walls of those organs and the enclosed 
fat. It is prepared simply by thoroughly cleansing the 
organs from every adherent substance, and from the flavors 
of bile, or other disagreeable matters, and then gentlv 
boiling them in clean water for about an hour. When thus 
prepared, it is of somewhat delicate flavor, and very easy oJ 
mastication and digestion. Its chemical constitution is 
such that it affords considerable nutriment, though not very 
satisfying—for it fully digests in about one hour—leaving 
the stomach in need of a new supply of food. Its nitro¬ 
genous compounds, also, being those rather of gelatine than 
of albumen, are somewhat less valuable than might be 
Expected. Though the ease and rapidity with which it ia 


58 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


digested seem to indicate it as a proper food for the sick; 
yet, in practice, its absence of pronounced flavor, and, per¬ 
haps, the unusual nature of the food, prevents its selection 
by the sick generally. 

From the feet of animals, we get two chief chemical ele 
ments of food—oil and gelatine; hence we have neat’s-foot 
oil and calf’s-foot jelly. Pigs’ feet, Dr. Beaumont found to 
be digested in about one hour—and cow-heels would pro¬ 
bably require the same time, except such tendinous parts 
as are masticated with difficulty and may be only partially 
digested after the lapse of several hours. “ Collared pork ”, 
made from the gelatinous parts of the pig—such as ears, 
face and feet, was in use in the 14 th Century. 

Sausages are of two kinds, those made from fresh meat, 
and those made from preserved meat, and both are placed 
in pieces of intestine. The first named, co?nposed of meat, 
bread and condiments, if made of proper kind, quality and 
quantity of meat, and used while fresh, are agreeable and 
valuable food. 

Those made of preserved meat, and designed to be kept 
for use, have a much greater nutritive value than fresh 
sausages, since the meat is very dry; they are composed of 
meat only; and, in the average, they are equal to 3 times 
their weight of fresh meat—and are particularly adapted to 
the use of travellers, soldiers and laborers who cannot cool 
their meat. The Prussian sausage (which obtained a very 
wide use during the recent war with France) consisted of a 
mixture of bacon, pea-flour, onions, salt and condiments—■ 
the pea-flour being a patented preparation which did 
not sour. The daily ration per man was 1 lb., and it 


HYGIENE.-NUTRITIVE FOOD-VALUES. 


59 


only required boiling in water for a short time before 
eating. 

Black puddings , prepared with blood (chiefly of pigs) to 
which groats and various herbs, with lumps of fat, are 
added,—the whole enclosed in a piece of pig’s intestine and 
boiled—is, in some parts, gaining ground in large com- 
munities, where the frequency of slaughting animals renders 
its daily preparation possible. They usually receive an 
additional cooking, before eating, by being fried, with or 
without being previously warmed by immersion in hot 
water. They should not be kept too long. Blood contains 
so many valuable nutritive elements as to render it, as a 
food, only inferior to the flesh, which is made from it* and 


* Composition of fresh blood in 1000 parts: 
Water - 

Fibrin ------ 

Fatty matter - - - - 

Serolin ------ 

Phosphorised fat - 
Cholesterin - 

Saponified fat - - - 

Albumen - 
Blood corpuscles - 
Extractive matters and Salts 
Chloride of sodium - - - 

Other soluble salts - 
Earthy phosphates - 
Iron ------ 

Also sugar 


779.00 
2.20 
1.60 
0.02 
0.49 
0.09 
1.00 
69.40 
141.10 
6.80 
3.10 
2.60 
0.33 
0 57 


The salts in blood perform an important part in nutrition, and it 
may be well to indicate their nature in the pig, sheep and ox, whose 
blood is used as food. The following is the quantity, per cent, o i 


each salt: 


Phosphoric Acid 
Alkalies 
Alkaline Earths 
Mineral Acids and 
Oxide of Iron 


Pig 

Sheep 

Ox. 

36.5 

14.8 

14.04 

49.8 

55.79 

60. 

3.8 

4.87 

3.64 

9.9 

24.54 

22.32 




50 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR 


any fear of diseased germs existing in it. may be set aside 
by tlie consideration that a temperature at and above 212°, 
if fully applied, will destroy all known elements of disease; 
and that blood, when fresh and so cooked, may be eaten 
with perfect safety. 

In the discussion of meat food w r e are led to consider the 
subject of Extracts of Meat and Fluid Meats, of which many 
varieties are in the market, and extensively used in the sick 
room. They are prepared (in two forms, viz. in a thick 
semi-fluid state, and as solids) by boiling down the flesh of 
animals, so that 32 lbs. of flesh are said to be required to 
prepare one pound of Liebig’s Extract. Lean cattle being 
necessarily selected for this purpose—and the net llesli 
(lean meat) weight of the animal being averaged at 300 lbs., 
one animal only yields about 10 lbs. of the extract. During 
this process, all the fat and as much of the gelatine and 
albumen as can be extracted, are removed from the solution 
of flesh, whilst the fibrin, being insoluble, is necessarily left 
behind. Hence there remain water, salts, osmazome, the 
flavoring matters and the salts of meat—thus leaving out all 
that is popularly regarded as nutritious. It is evident, 
therefore, that but little is left in the beef extract to nourish 
the body; and the elements which it really possesses are 
salts which may be otherwise obtained at an infinitely less 
cost, and the flavor of the meat which disguises the real 
poverty of the extract. A good deal of that which is sold 
as extract is only solidified soup, with gelatine added. Good 
ixtract is slightly acid, of pale yellowish-brown color, with 
n agreeable meat-like odor. 

Beef-tea Extract then, is a stimulant rather than a food. 


HYGIENE.—NUTRITIVE FOOD-VALUES. f)l 

A person may be hungered to death on it—and, if relied 
upon as a principal article of food for the sick, it will prove 
a broken staff, except to those extremely feeble persons who 
can take very little food, and are favorably influenced by 
very slight causes. Liebig himself.has stated that “it is 
rot nutriment in the ordinary sense.” In the preparation 
of ordinary soup and beef-tea, it may be added to the stock 
to increase the flavor, or it may be mixed with white of 
egg, gelatine, bread and other cooked farinaceous sub¬ 
stances, or with a teaspoonful of cream. But it should be 
remembered that it is properly to be classed with such 
nervous stimulants as tea and coffee, which supply little or 
no nutriment, yet modify assimilation and nutrition. Used 
alone for beef-tea it is a delusion. 

The solid preparations of meat, contain a considerable 
proportion of gelatine and do not putrefy because the 
gelatine has been dried. A much larger quantity of these 
solids than of the semi-fluid extracts, must be used, to 
obtain the same amount of meat-flavor and salts—but, in 
the same ratio, is the gelatine (nutriment) increased. In 
as much as they represent different qualities and uses, the 
solid and the semi-fluid extract preparations of meat may 
both be used together with advantage.—The solid foods are 
made, also, from the meat of other animals than the beef, 
and therefore offer a variety and delicacy of flavor to the 
invalid, which the extracts do not. 

There are in the market, also, fluid preparations (such as 
Stephen Daily’s) of lean meat, which retain the fibrin, 
gelatine and coagulable albumen—made by a process a: 
nearly as possible representing the natural process of 


62 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOS. 


digestion in the stomach, and by which one pound ot uuid 
meat is obtained from 4 lbs. of lean flesh. Assuming that all 
the nitrogenous elements, as well as the salts, are properly 
retained by it, it should prove a superior article of food to 
either the fluid extracts, or the solid preparation of meat. 

Albumen, (familiarly represented by the white of the egg) 
is, by far, the most important single element of food, inas¬ 
much as it contains nutritive matter in a compact and easily 
digestible form; and being almost without flavor, can be 
used in the preparation of food, very diverse in other 
respects, while it is adapted to every variety of taste. Its 
composition, in the egg, is identical with that contained in 
the blood and tissues of man and animals—and it has been 
demonstrated that ten grains of solid albumen, when 
burned, produce heat sufficient to raise 12.85 lbs. of water 
1° Fahr., which is equal to lifting 9.920 lbs. to a height of 
one foot. 

Gelatine, differing from albumen in appearance, is similar 
in chemical composition. It is found in the tendons, skin 
and bones of the body, in the stomach of the sturgeon, in 
the juices of plants, in seaweed, moss, and birds’ nests, etc. 

'—is almost destitute of flavor, and requires wine, &c., to 
render it palatable. Its flavor, readiness of mastication and 
digestion, and nutritive elements, make it for food almost as 
valuable as albumen. 

Eggs. The almost entirely albuminoid character of eggs, 
renders them a most valuable article of diet. Indeed, if the 
shell be included, an egg contains everything that is 
necessary for the formation and maintenance of the body. 
It is popularly supposed that an egg in the raw state is 


HYGIENE.—NUTRITIVE FOOD-VALUES. 61 

more easily digested than one that is cooked, but this may 
doubted, if the egg be not overcooked. 

It ha« been found that the yolk is more digestible when 
hard-boiled, while the white is least so. If the albumen be 
coagulated by the heat of cooking it becomes heavy and 
difficult of digestion, and sometimes produces constipation 
and irritation of the bowels. It should therefore be parti¬ 
cularly avoided by dyspeptics, and by persons recovering 
from illness, before the full powers of digestion have been 
regained. If the insoluble portions of hard-boiled eggs are 
delayed in the stomach and intestines, they putrify, and 
the sulphuretted hydrogen and ammonia evolved become 
irritating to the intestinal canal. But fresh uncooked eggs 
are almost wholly free from these objections. A fresh raw 
egg, thoroughly stirred into about half a pint of milk, forms, 
to most persons, a palatable and nourishing article of diet. 
One great advantage this preparation has over other food is 
that all the component parts are retained in their natural 
state, are more completely dissolved, and consequently 
make less demands upon weak digestive powers, than when 
the egg is eaten in its solidified form. If patients object to 
the taste of raw eggs, a little sugar may be added; or if this 
be not sufficient, some simple flavoring extract may be used. 
Wine or spirits are often employed, but they are usually 
objectionable, and should be dispensed with if possible. 

Eggs seem to be particularly useful in lung diseases, and 
in cases of exhaustive cough soothe the irritable rnucoua 
membrane. 

Artificial fibrin, so called, has been found available when 
ko other food could be taken. It is thus prepared:—The 


64 


HOMEOPAMC MENTOfc. 


white of an egg is poured into cold water and allowed id 
remain for twelve or more hours, during which time it 
undergoes a chemical change, becoming solid and insoluble, 
assuming an opaque, snow-white appearance. This and 
the liquid in which it is immersed are heated to the boiling- 
point, and the fibrin is ready for use. It is very easy to 
digest, and to many is quite a delicacy. It is said that the 
stomach will retain this in many cases when everything else 
is promptly rejected, its presence creating a craving for 
more food, and thus promoting instead of diminishing dr 
gestion. 

Egg, with milk and sugar, forms a plain custard, which 
is often allowable and very grateful. 

The mixture of egg with milk, is very nutritious—but, 
if the milk be new and good, it is possible that such a 
combination might hinder rather than promote digestion 
and nutrition. In the cooked form of pudding, egg and 
milk are more digestible. 

Eggs undergo change by being kept. The porous shell 
allows the evaporation of water and the infiltration of air; 
certain organic changes also occur when the shell is 
rendered non-porous. To test the freshness of an egg an 
ounce of salt may be added to ten ounces or half a pint of 
water; in this solution a fresh egg will just sink, one that 
Ibas been kept for several days will float. A bad egg is 
often sufficiently light to float in pure water. Fresh eggs 
may also be known by holding them up to the light, when 
they will appear clear; if stale they will appear cloudy. 
Fresh eggs are most translucent in the centre, stale ones at 
the end. In order to preserve the freshness of eggs various 


HYGIENE.—NUTRITIVE FOOD-VALUES. 


65 


plans have been adopted to render the shells non-porous or 
to exclude air; such as boiling them for half a minute, 
keeping them in lime water, bran or salt, or covering them 
with a coating of wax, oil, butter, gum, or varnish; but with 
only variable success. No fusty egg is good for food, even 
when put into puddings; it should be banished from 
the house if there be the slightest smell of old straw 
about it. 

Ducks* eggs are larger and have a stronger flavor than 
hens’ eggs; the solid matter and the oil in a duck’s egg 
exceeds that of a hen’s by as much as one-fourth. They 
are not often introduced into the sick-room, but there is no 
reason why they should be excluded if the flavor be agree¬ 
able to the patient. 

The shirred egg, as prepared in France, Mexico, and 
Eastern lands, is very delicious. A pottery dish is used 
instead of an iron pan, and the heat kept moderate by using 
charcoal fires. The dish is very thick, so that it must be 
placed upon the fire for a little time to become well warmed 
through, after which butter, with pepper and salt are placed 
in it, by which the surface is well lubricated and a savory 
mixture prepared to receive the egg, which is then broken 
and dropped into it, and in a short time turned so that 
both sides may be slightly browned, but without breaking 
the yelk bag. When cooked it is served on the same dish 
and in the hottest state possible and its flavor is very deli¬ 
cate—being often appetizing to the invalid when, in other 
forms of cooking, it would be rejected. 

Egg takes about as long as mutton to digest—viz., 3 to 4 
hours. Its chemical composition is (per cent), dry matter 


66 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


30.0; mineral matter 1.4; dry fat 11.0; nitrogen 2.0; caroon 
17.52; or carbon -and nitrogen reckoned as carbon 20.56. 

Poultry and Game. The flesh of birds differs from that 
of animals, in the relative quantity of fat; and, in the 
quality of juices. The fat of birds is laid up in various 
parts of the interior of the body as well as under the skin, 
but is very sparingly formed in the fibres or the juices of 
the flesh; and its flavor is not regarded as agreeable. The 
juices are deficient in red-blood. The flesh of fowl is 
quite as rich in nitrogenous elements, but relatively poorer 
in fat and salts than that of animals—and is regarded as 
light food, better suited to invalids than to strong men or 
as an adjunct to flesh rather than as a food to sustain 
man. 

In the flesh of fowl, there are very appreciable differences, 
dependant upon the nature, breed, food and feeding of the 
bird The flavor of wild birds is fuller and stronger than 
that of domesticated birds, and the flesh richer in nitro¬ 
genous, as it is generally poorer in carbonaceous material. 
The structure is closer and firmer, and in the fresh state 
hard and tough, so that wild fowl are always better after 
being kept a while, to allow of the beginning of separation 
and softening of the fibres, through decomposition. Hence, 
while a domestic fowl is eaten when quite fresh, a wild fowl 
is kept many days, or for weeks, before it is cooked. Sex¬ 
less birds, as the capon and pullet, grow larger, fatten 
better, and are more tender and delicate than ordinary 
poultry. Ducks and geese are not so well adapted as poultry 
for the sick room, for their flesh is border, richer, and more 
highly flavored. 



HYGIENE.—NUTRITIVE UOOD-VALUE& 67 

Pigeon an d smaller birds are usually tender antf relishing, 
and may be eaten with safety by the convalescent. 

The blood of the common fowl is inferior to that of red- 
blooded animals in the matter of the salts of iron, but 
superior to it in phosphates, (said to play so important a 
part in regenerating the nervous tissue) which are three 
times more abundant in the hitter than the former. The 
average chemical composition, of poultry-flesh, when fat for 
the market, in 100 parts, is, water 74; nitrogenous 21; fat 
3.8; salts 1.2. 

Rabbits' flesh in general and nutritive character closely 
assembles that of the hen, and its delicate flavor and di¬ 
gestibility render it more acceptable to the invalid than 
that of the hare , which is food rather for the healthy than 
the sick. Hanging the hare’s flesh for a considerable time 
before cooking, improves its flavor, ease of mastication and 
digestion. The flesh of the squirrel is very dense, gelatin¬ 
ous, luscious and satisfying. 

Fish is an exceedingly valuable food, if eaten as soon as 
possible after capture. The popular belief in its lack of 
nutritive value arises probably from the fact that it does not 
easily satisfy hunger, and is quickly digested, so that the 
appetite soon returns. Nor is it desirable that fish should 
form the sole, or even the greater part, of nitrogenous 
animal food eaten by any people; for, even should milk and 
eggs be added to it, the vigor of such a people will not be 
equal to that of flesh-eating peoples. At the same time, the 
value of fish as a part of a dietary is indicated by the larger 
proportion of phosphorus which it contains, and which 
renders it especially fitted for the use of those who perform 


68 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR 


much brain work, or who are the victims of nervous ex¬ 
haustion or of much mental anxiety and distress. 

Fish are out of condition in the spawning season, and 
are then less fit, or even unfit, for food; young fish can 
always be eaten. Fish caught from the deep seas are better 
than those from shallow bays; and fresh water fish from 
deep, clear water with stony bottom, than those from 
muddy shallows. As with animals, whether beast or bird, 
domestic or wild, their quality depends upon feed, its kind 
and quantity, etc. 

A sign of the freshness of fish is its firmness and rigidity, 
which is due to the rigor mortis , which passes off after 
awhile. For the invalid, fish should always be boiled , or 
broiled in oil; the fat added in frying it renders it less di¬ 
gestible. Dried, salted, smoked or pickled fish should not 
be offered to invalids; but a little fresh fish, well boiled, 
served with bread and butter, without sauces and season¬ 
ings, may frequently tempt the fastidious appetite. 

For food purposes, we are accustomed to divide fish into 
two classes—viz., into white-blooded and red-blooded, of 
which cod represents the former, and salmon the latter. 
The flavor varies, also, in proportion to the amount of oil 
in the flesh of the respective kinds of fish—white fish con¬ 
taining, as a rule, far less oil than red fish. The nutritive 
value of white fish, is much less than that of the flesh of 
animals; less than that of poultry, but greater than that of 
eggs; but the nutritive value of the flesh of a red-blood fish 
(salmon, for instance), is almost equal to that of the 
flesh of other red-blood animals. Fresh herring offers the 
largest amount of nutriment, for a given sum of monev, of 


HYGIENE.-NUTRITIVE FOOD-VALUES. 


69 


any kind of animal food, and is therefore pre-eminently, “the 
poor man’s fish.” 

Salmon stands pre-eminent as a delicacy, and more nearly 
resembles the moat of animals than that of other fish; fat is 
intermixed with the muscular fibre, and underlies the skin, 
particularly of the abdomen; it is therefore rich—too rich 
for invalids. Mackerel, Herring\ Bullhead, and Eel are also 
fatty in their composition; and, therefore, less suitable 
than white fish for those whose powers of digestion are 
feeble. 

Amongst white fish are Shad, Halibut, Brook- Trout, Pike, 
Perch, Bass, Sunfish, Haddock, Flounder, Cod, etc., whose 
flesh contains little fat, except in the liver. Whitefish, the 
chicken of fish, is the most delicate and easy of digestion. 
Cod is close, firm, tough, and indigestible for a weak 
stomach.. Fried Cod is like veal cutlet, but drier. Hallibut 
has richer flavor, but does not stand high as food for invalids. 

Fish-broth contains ne rly the same component parts as 
meat-broth, and in some countries fish-soups are as much 
esteemed as those of meat. 

Isinglass, which is obtained from the air-bladder of the 
sturgeon, is a useful vehicle for the administration of other 
ingredients of food, surpassing gelatine in value. 

Shell-fish, with the exception of oysters, are less nutritive 
than other kinds of fish, less digestible, and more likely to 
disagree with weak stomachs than most kinds of animal 
food. In some persons they produce gastric irritation and 
diarrhoea, and in others nettle-rash and similar eruptions. 
Indeed, so marked is this effect on some constitutions, that 
‘«t is necessary to forbid shell-fish altogether. 


70 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


Lobster and Crab, though very agreeable to many persons, 
are not suitable for those whose digestive organs are weak, 
md consequently should not be introduced into the sick¬ 
room. Indeed, some persons in ordinary health cannot 
take them, because they are not easily digested, even when 
stimulants of the gastric juice are added in the form of 
vinegar and pepper. Turtle-soup , and clam-soup though 
somewhat rich, when given in small quantities at a time, 
are often very restorative to invalids. 

Oysters are nutritious, and readily digested even by deli¬ 
cate stomachs. From recent researches it appears that they 
contain sufficient pepsine to be self-digestive. By invalids 
they should be taken without the fringe or beard (gills), 
and without the hard muscle by which the fish is attached 
to the shell; they should also be taken raiv, and masticated 
before they are swallowed. To eat them with vinegar is to 
commit a dietetic mistake. It is a good plan to keep them 
alive for a day or two by placing them in a shallow dish of 
clear brine, feeding them with meal and changing the water, 
so that they may lie bare for a while, and then be washed 
again twice a day, in imitation of the tide. They are in 
best condition from September to May. As a means of con¬ 
veying phosphates they are invaluable. 

Fresh oysters are most grateful in chronic dyspepsia; 
where nausea is present; in the case of consumptives; for 
the trouble of morning sickness; in chronic diarrhoea; they 
can be eaten with advantage by the nursing mother, who 
will in this way not only strengthen her own system, but 
also that of the child at her breast. Convalescents from 
fever will find in the oyster a delicate and nourishing food. 


HYGIENE.-NUTRITIVE FOOD-VALUES. 


71 


Oyster-stew, prepared plain or with milk; or oyster-essence 
made by slowly simmering oysters in their liquor or a little 
water until they swell, seasoning with salt, straining the 
liquor, and serving with dry toast or plain biscuits, are ex- 
sellent methods of giving oysters. 

Milk.— Pure milk contains in solution, like eggs, all the 
elements required for the growth and sustenance of the 
body. This is especially true in relation to a child. Indeed, 
it may be regarded as the typical alimentary substance, for 
it combines nitrogenous, fatty, saccharine, and mineral 
matters, and water, in such proportions as are required by 
the animal economy, and in such a state of mixture and 
liquefaction as to be easily assimilated. In fact, it requires 
no digestion, and it is this excellence which renders milk a 
most important and convenient article under many circum¬ 
stances. It is already digested and prepared for absorption. 
In cases of fever, pure milk as the main article of diet is far 
superior to anything else, especially in Enteric and other 
fevers, with derangement of the stomach and bowels. 
Beef-tea, which is commonly used, is often irritating; but 
milk, on the contrary, is soothing, cooling, and at the same 
time nourishing and strengthening. In chronic disorder! 
of the stomach and bowels a milk diet is a most valuable 
accessory to medical treatment. It allows the stomach to 
have almost absolute rest, which in many cases is the main- 
thing required. And this condition can be prolonged 
almost indefinitely, since an adult can be sustained for days 
or even weeks on milk alone. It should, however, be ob¬ 
served that milk would not be suitable diet for adults in 
health, as the nitrogenous matter is in considerable excess 


72 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOtt. 


in relation to the carbonaceous. It is suited to young per¬ 
sons who have to grow, and who in order to grow must 
appropriate an excess of what is nitrogenous to form a daily 
addition to the body. On the other hand, it is not so suit¬ 
able for full-grown persons, who have not so much to form, 
tissue as to develop heat, or other force, by the combustion 
of carbon. 

It must not be overlooked that the several elements or 
constituents of milk vary in quantity and proportion in 
different animals, and under different circumstances in the 
same animal. Variations are exhibited in the following 
table, which should be regarded as showing average rather 
than actual proportions, inasmuch as the milk of each 
animal is not alike. 

Woman Cow Goat Sheep Ass Mare. 

Nitrogenous matter 


and insoluble salts 3.35 4.55 4.50 7.00 1.70 1.62 

Butter. 3.34 3.70 4.10 6.50 1.40 0.20 

Lactine and soluble 

salts. 3.77 5.35 5.80 4.50 6.40 8.75 

Water. 89.54 86.40 85.60 82.00 90.50 89.43 


100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 100.00 

The “nitrogenous matter” is chiefly caseine, which forms 
curd and cheese; the “lactine” is a form of sngar. 

Woman’s milk is, of course, the standard. Cow’s milk 
more nearly approximates to it than that of any other 
animal, and hence is most generally used; contains consider¬ 
ably more caseine, less sugar and a little more butter than 
woman’s milk. If therefore a mixture be made of § cow’s 
milk and | of warm water, to which half an ounce of sugar 
of milk be added to the pint, we shah obtain a composition 






HYGIENE.-NUTRITIVE FOOD-VALUES. 


73 


very similar to tliat of the mother’s milk. If sugar of 
milk be not obtainable, its place may be supplied by some¬ 
what more than half the quantity of refined cane sugar. 
Gloat’s milk is richer than cow’s; sheep’s milk still richer. 
Ass’s or mare’s milk is much poorer, but much sweeter. 
Indeed, so large is the proportion of sugar of milk in the 
last that it is fermented and converted into a spirituous 
liquor, know T n by the name of koumiss, and successfully 
administered in many cases of Consumption, chronic Bron¬ 
chitis, and chronic Diarrhoea. 

Koumiss, which is fermented mare’s or cow’s milk, has 
been found very useful in some cases of consumption. The 
Russian plan of making it is as follows:—Two teacupfuls of 
wheat-flour are mixed with one spoonful of honey, one of 
good beer yeast, and sufficient milk to form a not too thin 
paste; the whole is put in a moderately warm place to fer¬ 
ment. When fermentation takes place the ferment is put 
in a linen bag, and hung in a jar or keg containing sixteen 
pounds of fresh mare’s milk, covered and allowed to stand 
till the milk has acquired a pleasant, acidulous taste (about 
16 to 24 hours, according to the temperature). The butter 
and cheese particles which float about are now skimmed off, 
the liquid is poured into another keg and shaken for one 
hour, after which time it is poured into bottles, corked, and 
put into the cellar. A “cure” requires twelve to fifteen 
pounds of milk daily, the produce of two mares; the best 
season for it is from May to July. The koumiss is taken 
early in the morning, every hour (a teacupful to a tumblerful 
at a time), and plenty of exercise must follow. 

Cow’s milk varies very much in quality. After parturition 


74 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOS. 


takes place in any animal tlie first fluid secreted differs 
considerably from ordinary milk, and is termed colostrum; 
consequently cow’s milk, for three or four weeks after 
calving, is not fit for food; it has a somewhat sickly smell, 
and acts as a purgative. 

The milk of the Alderney cow is characterized by its 
richness in butter, that of the long-horns by its richness 
in caseine. The product of young cows is preferable 
to that of old ones, and as a food for infants the age of 
the secretion should be less than that of the baby; that is 
to say a cow with a calf two months old may do very well 
to feed a child of four months. The milk first drawn from 
the cow contains less cream than that which is last drawn; 
indeed (especially if some time has elapsed between the 
time of milking), the amount of cream in the latter may be 
two or three times as much as in the former. The milk of 
the afternoon is richer both in caseine and butter than that 
of the morning. The food on which the cow is fed consider¬ 
ably affects the quality of the milk; poor diet impoverishes 
it; strong vegetables, such as turnips, cabbages, and onions, 
flavor it; decayed leaves make it disagreeable; poisonous 
plants render it injurious; nothing is equal to the fresh 
pasture of country fields for securing good milk. 

Its quality may be tested by the amount of cream it pro¬ 
duces, by its weight, and by its specific gravity. Tli*, larger 
the proportion of cream, the better the milk. A quart ol 
new milk, cooled, should weight about 2 lb. 2J oz. if it is of 
fair average quality. The sp. gr. of good genuine milk 
ranges from 1.026 to 1.030 at a temperature of 60°. The 
addition of water or an excess of cream lowers the sp. gi 


HYGIENE.-NUTRITIVE FOOD-VALUES. 


75 


But whether or not the milk be diluted with water, it is not 
[infrequently rendered unwholesome by being put into 
vessels that have not been cleansed by thorough washing 
out with soda. On stale milk, even in minute quantities, a 
small blue fungus, or mould, very speedily forms, which 
soon spreads to fresh milk and causes it to turn sour; hence 
Colic, Diarrhoea, and Thrush are occasioned in those who 
partake of it. 

Fifteen grains of bicarbonate of soda to a quart of milk 
prevents it from turning sour, and also renders it more 
digestible. 

Milk, though nourishing, does not agree with every one. 
If diluted with one-third lime-water, it will rarely cause 
biliousness or indigestion, and if taken regularly will so 
strengthen the system as to banish these disorders. It may 
be taken with acid of some kind when it does not easily 
digest. The idea that milk must not be eaten with pickles 
is not an intelligent one, as milk curdles as soon as it is 
swallowed. "When milk is constipating a little salt sprinkled 
in each glassful will avert the difficulty. When it has an 
opposite effect, a few drops of brandy in each tumbler of 
milk will obviate purgation. After finishing a meal a 
tumbler of pure milk may be drunk, and half a pin!, taken 
at bedtime with a biscuit makes a light supper. Ten grains 
of new milk when consumed in the body produces sufficient 
heat to raise 1.7 lb. of water 10 F., which is equal to lifting 
1.246 lbs. one foot high. 

The milk of all animals is more easily digested when eaten 
warm, especially by those who have the impression that it 
does not agree with them, and by invalids. This is not 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


79 

however, due to any marked chemical change effected in the 
milk by heat, for the only effect is to coagulate the albumen 
and to raise it as a scum upon the surface, but to the 
stimulating effect of heat, both on the palate and stomach. 
In cases of fever, in exhausted conditions dependent on 
loss of blood, and in summer diarrhoea and other inflam¬ 
matory affections of the alimentary tract, it may be given 
scalded with excellent results; it is a sheet-anchor in 
Enteric fever. Owing to outbreaks of fever which were 
traced to infected milk, many persons adopted the pre¬ 
caution of boiling all milk before using it, and thus the 
disease-germs which it may have contained were rendered 
innocuous. This is a good plan for persons resident in 
towns. But when used as a substitute for mother’s milk, 
cow’s milk should not be boiled, but only raised to the 
temperatime of breast milk by the addition of warm water. 

Cream is composed of the fatty constituent of milk, which. 
m account of its lightness, rises to the surface when the 
milk is allowed to stand. It forms the basis of butter. It 
can often be taken freely when nothing else will remain 
an the stomach, notwithstanding the abundance of fatty 
matter. It should always be fresh, and may be diluted 
with water or given pure if desired. Clotted cream is pro¬ 
duced by heating milk just to the point of simmering, which 
causes a scum to form with the fatty matter and give it 
more consistence. 

SJcim-milk is that from which the cream has been re¬ 
moved, and being consequently less rich than ordinary 
milk, it can frequently be taken by invalids when the latte 1 * 
cannot 


HYGIENE.-NUTE1T1VE 1? L^D-VALUES. 


77 


Butter-milk is wliat is left after the extraction of butter. 
It of course contains less fatty matter than skim-milk, but 
it retains the nitrogenous, saccharine, and saline matter, 
and is therefore very nourishing and useful as an article 
of diet. Unless very fresh it is generally a little acid. It 
is one of the most refreshing summer drinks that can be' 
taken, and is almost always allowable in sickness, especially 
in fevers with gastric symptoms. It arouses a gentle 
activity of the liver and kidneys, particularly of the latter 
organs; and is (See page 45) especially valuable for old 
people. 

Curds are the caseine and fat of milk combined by coa¬ 
gulation of the milk. They form the basis of cheese. The 
addition of an acid to the milk sets free the caseine which 
is held in solution by an alkali, and causes coagulation. 

Whey is the residuary liquid after the curd has been re¬ 
moved, containing a little of the caseine and fat, but all the 
sugar, acids, and salts of milk. The caseine and fat being 
absent, there is no fear of curdling in the stomach, thus 
causing pain or Diarrhoea. Whey can, therefore, be taken 
by many persons with whom milk disagrees. It is not very 
valuable as nutriment, but it is very digestible, is easily 
absorbed, and is a refreshing drink in the sick-room espe¬ 
cially in inflammatory disorders. A slight flavor of nutmeg 
makes it very palatable. There is a prevailing opinion that 
whey is sudorific; hence wine-whey, alum-whey, tamarind- 
whey, etc., when the milk has been curdled by these sub¬ 
stances, are recommended. The method of preparation is 
given in a succeeding chapter. 

In Switzerland whey is supposed to have medicinal 


78 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


virtues, particularly for the relief of chronic disorders of the 
abdominal organs; the treatment, which is known as the 
Molken-Kur , has a fashionable reputation. 

Condensed milk is milk preserved by the evaporation of a 
large proportion of its water, and the addition of cane 
sugar. It is sold in hermetically-sealed tins, in which it 
can be kept for several years; when the tins are opened it is 
found in the form of syrup, which will remain good for 
several days. It is very useful for the diet of invalids in 
making of light puddings, or other food into which milk 
largely enters. It requires the addition of a considerable 
quantity of soft water (three parts water to one part milk) 
to replace what has been evaporated. Being already 
sweetened, it needs no addition of sugar. Its sweetness 
renders it very agreeable to infants, who take it readily, 
grow plump, and apparently thrive well upon it. 

But it is an error to assume that a given quantity, when 
dissolved in water, will yield new milk or be as useful as 
new milk in feeding infants and young children, and it 
should rarely be used as a substitute in such cases when 
new milk can be obtained. 

Butter is the fatty portion of milk, obtained by 
churning the cream or the entire milk. This operation 
causes the rupture of the envelopes of the fat globules, 
which then coalesce and become incorporated into a solid 
mass. Milk yields on an average 5J per cent, of butter. 
Though butter is generally churned from cream, it would 
be produced in greater quantity from entire milk; but as 
the churning of milk would necessitate more labor and 
the use of larger vessels, it has not been generally adopted. 


HYGIENE.-NUTRITIVE FOOD-VALUES. 


79 


The churning of cream is best performed at a temperature 
varying from 50° to 55°, and the temperature may be 
regulated by placing hot or cold water, according to the 
season, in the outer vessel. Milk requires a temperature of 
60°. When the butter is formed it should be kneaded and 
washed with water to remove the caseine, fatty acids, and 
other ingredients which would prevent its keeping sweet 
and fresh. Salt is added to preserve it. If syrup be added 
instead of salt, or sugar with which is mixed a little salt, 
butter is said to keep better. 

When pure and fresh, butter is more easily assimilated 
by delicate stomachs than most other fats. It is also the 
form of separate fat which is less frequently disliked by 
consumptive people and invalids generally; but it should 
not be too bountifully supplied. Butter that has become 
stale or rancid, or been exposed to heat (as for buttered 
toast), is very likely to disagree with dyspeptics and other 
invalids, and cause Diarrhoea. Indeed, as a rule, all kinds 
of decomposing fats disagree with the stomach. There are 
ready means of detection through the senses of sight, taste, 
and smell, when butter is adulterated. Pure butter should 
be of a uniform rich yellow appearance; when a streaky lool 
is imparted by quickly passing over it a clean knife the 
presence of adulterants is always to be suspected. When 
melted it should yield a clear-looking oil, with but slight 
deposit of water or other substances. When placed on the 
tongue it melts quickly and leaves the tongue perfectly 
smooth; while, on the contrary, there will be a sense of 
roughness, a granular taste, and the peculiar flavor of the 
adulterant, as the result of this test, when butter is adulter- 


80 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOK. 


ated. The odor of butter is very persistent, and therefore 
does not so well mark its purity or the reverse. 

The value of Cheese as an article of diet has not been 
entirely established. If we consider its chemical compo¬ 
sition we find it very rich, richer than any other known food, 
in (nitrogenous) nutritive elements, provided we select a 
good specimen: but this varies with the conditions of its 
manufacture. The poorer the cheese the greater the pro¬ 
portion of the casein* (curd) or nitrogenous element; while 
the richer the cheese the greater is the proportion of fat or 
butter which it contains; but, in either case, the proportion 
of nitrogenous matter in a given weight far exceeds that of 
meat. One pound of cheese has been estimated as equi¬ 
valent to 3| lbs. of lean beef. Taken with bread or other 
vegetable diet it is very nutritive to persons of active 
habits; and, as a relish, or condiment it stimulates digestion. 
There is, however, a long-standing belief that cheese is not 
easily digested; and also, that in spite of this want of di¬ 
gestibility, it promotes the digestion of other foods. Scien¬ 
tific experiment has, indeed, shown that there is good 
reason to consider both of these beliefs as well founded; 
and that, while it may be proper to eat a small portion of 
cheese, both for the nutrition which it supplies and for the 
promotion of digestion, it is not proper to eat a large quan-; 
tity, or to make it a principal article of food and a substitute 
for meat. It is not at all improbable that cheese may pro¬ 
duce different effects on different persons; that its effect will 

* This is the sole source of the nitrogen in which cheese so abound*, 
and when pure consists of the following elements in 100 parts: Carbon 
63.83; Oxygen 22.52; Hydrogen 7.15; Nitrogen 15.65. 



HYGIENE.— NUTRITIVE FOOD-VALUES. 


81 


hear some relation to the desire which the individual has 
for it; and that its customary use from childhood may 
modify its appreciable deleterious effects. 

The time required for its digestion varies with its age and 
according to the amount of fat it contains, but—with a 
fairly good medium-aged cheese, is from 3J to 4 hours 
New cheese and poor cheese also require a longer time for 
digestion, since they are chewed with greater difficulty. 
Old poor cheese also requires a longer time, for its hard¬ 
ness delays its solution in the gastric juices; and, if a good 
cheese be old and greatly decayed it plays the part of an 
irritant in the stomach which may cause a form of in¬ 
digestion, and be itself hurried through the stomach into 
the intestines so rapidly as almost to prevent its digestion. 

Taunted cheese, as ordinarily prepared, is one of the most 
indigestible articles that can be eaten, but if it is new and 
lightly cooked with cream and butter, it can be rendered 
digestible by a healthy stomach 
Ten grains of good cheese when consumed in the body 
produce sufficient heat to raise 11.2 lbs. of water 10 Fahr., 
which is equal to lifting 8.649 lbs. one foot high 

Cream cheese (fresh curd moderately pressed) must be 
eaten fresh; and is more digestible than ordinary cheese 
(2 to 3 hours) because it is softer, more easily masticated 
and has less casein. To many invalids it will prove a 
pleasant variation with other diet. 

Drijy[nnfj, from roasting joints, if not burned, is one of the 
most nutritious forms of fat and very agreeable; its flavor 
depending somewhat upon the degree of roasting to which 
the flesh is subjected. It may sometimes prove a welcome 


82 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


alternative to butter in the sickroom. Salt should be 
eaten with it; but it must be taken in moderation, and its 
action watched, or it will disorder the stomach and 
heighten fever. 

Vegetable products enter largely into the food of man, in 
the form of seeds, roots, leaves, herbs, and preparations of 
different kinds. 

Farinaceous seeds form the largest portion of our vege¬ 
table food, and are the most extensively used; they are of 
great nutritive value, of easy digestion; plentifully yielded, 
and universally grown. 

Cereals hold the first place. Their general composition is 
very similar, but on account of the differences that exist in 
the proportions of their component elements they have 
different nutritive values. Even the various kinds of wheat 
are not exactly alike, especially in the relative proportions 
of nitrogenous matter and starch. On an average, wheat 
contains more nitrogenous matter than other grains. Oats 
come nearest to wheat in this respect, and are of equal 
value to many wheats; they also contain a large proportion 
of fats and salts. Maize (Indian Corn) is rich in fatty 
matter, moderately so in nitrogenous, but poor in salts. 
Rice is very rich in starch, but poor in other constituents. 

The constituents of Wheat more nearly correspond with 
the requirements of the human system under ordinary cir¬ 
cumstances than any other grain; and life and health can 
be maintained on wheat alone for an indefinite period, 
provided there be an adequate supply of good water and 
air. Hence it is one of the most widely cultivated of the 
cereals. 


HYGIENE.-NUTRITIVE FOOD-VALUE& 8S 

As ordinarily used, however, it is deprived of much of its 
nutritive value, for the portion which contains the largest 
amount of nitrogenous matter is removed in order to meet 
the demand for whiteness in the bread. Each grain, after 
being thrashed out of the straw and winnowed from th« 
husks, is composed of a hard, thin outer coat, or bran; u 
soft, friable intermediate layer of cells; and a central white 
substance chiefly composed of starch. The outer coat is 
woody, indigestible, useless for nutrition, and irritating to 
the alimentary canal. In some cases it may therefore be 
advisable to retain it to act mechanically to stimulate the 
action of the intestines in constipation; but when used by 
persons who take active exercise it is too stimulating, for it 
causes the food to pass hurriedly through the canal before 
the process of disintegration and assimilation is completed. 
For invalids, and persons whose digestive organs are in a 
state of susceptibility, it is too irritating. The inner coat 
is of most value. It is usually removed with the outer coat 
in dressing the flour. But it is the richest part of the grain 
in nitrogenous matter, fats, and salts, the part which con¬ 
tains food for muscles, bones, and brains; and the mora 
thoroughly this is removed, the finer the flour is dressed, 
the whiter the bread produced, the less valuable is the 
bread for nutrition. The central white material of the grain 
is chiefly composed of starch, but it comprises also a pro¬ 
portion of the more nourishing elements, though the pro¬ 
portion is so small that the utility of the grain is sacrifiecj 
to the appearance of the bread. Many writers—notably 
Liebig—have pointed out the waste of nutritive material^ 
and the unwisdom of preferring white bread to that which 


84 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


contains the nitrogenous portion. Pavy, however, reminds 
us that bread is not our only food; that what is rejected in 
the bread is taken in other forms; and that through animal 
diet we receive the very elements which have been elimin¬ 
ated from the flour. Certainly, to most persons, the white 
bread is more palatable, and has a more attractive ap¬ 
pearance, than the more nutritious bread; but the taste is 
probably a matter of habit. If it were not that it gave a 
dark color and a soft consistence to bread, a very important 
soluble nitrogenous matter called cerealine might be utilised 
by soaking the bran in warm water for some time, and 
using the water in the preparation of the dough for bread. 
It would be better to sacrifice the appearance and cultivate 
another taste, if thereby more nutriment could be obtained. 
Young and growing children are great but unconscious 
sufferers from the common custom. Many are weak from 
mal-nutrition, grow up with defective teeth and bones, weak 
tissues, inadequate muscular development, and are suscept¬ 
ible to diseases which they have not constitutional strength 
enough to combat and resist. 

Stale bread is preferable to new, especially in any weakness 
of the digestive organs, since it is firm and more friable 
under the action of the teeth, and more easily penetrated 
by the digestive juices, than new bread. New bread in the 
stomach often ferments afresh, and even in persons of good 
digestion produces heartburn. 

The toasting of bread greatly increases its digestibility, 
provided it be properly done. The slice should be toasted 
brown, not burnt, so that it may be crisp and firm through¬ 
out. It then constitutes the best form in which starchy food 


HYGIENE.-NUTRITIVE FOOD VALUES. 85 

can be given; for much of the starch is changed into glucose 
by the heat; and in wheat bread there is some little gluten, 
which partly supplies the place of albumen. If toast is 
buttered, the butter should be applied as the toast is eaten, 
so that it may not become soaked with the butter. By 
some it is much enjoyed without butter, and is then more 
readily digested. Toast-water, when properly prepared, 
forms an almost indispensable article in the sick-room. If 
good stale bread or biscuits are nicely toasted, not burnt, 
and then placed in a dish or pitcher, and hot water poured 
on and allowed to cool, the drink may, while more nourish¬ 
ing, be more palatable than water alone. 

Biscuits which contain but little water, are, bulk for bulk, 
more nutritious than bread, three quarters of a pound being 
about equal to a pound of bread. Wheaten biscuits , either 
sweet or plain, are most suitable for those who suffer from 
Dyspepsia and Constipation. 

Sponge cakes are also light, and often tempting. They 
may be soaked in hot milk; as also may rusks . Muffins are 
Very indigestible. Gingerbread, when dry, crisp, and light, 
is acceptable to many dyspeptics. Macaroni and Vermicelli 
are very nutritious, but not easily digested. 

Oats, when ground, form a flour which is not so white as 
wheaten flour, and when made into bread has a peculiar 
taste, half sweet, half bitter. Unlike the wheat, the muscle¬ 
making material of the oat is not connected with its hull, 
and is not therefore removed in making fine flour. Oat¬ 
meal and unbolted wheat-meal contain about the same 
amount of heat-producing material, but one pint of oat¬ 
meal-gruel contains as much muscle-making material aa 


86 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR 


five gills of unbolted meal gruel, or as in three quails of 
fine flour-gruel. The Scotch oatmeal is generally preferred 
for flavor and nutritive qualities. Porridge is a hasty 
pudding of boiled oatmeal. The oatmeal should be mixed, 
at first very thin, in boiling water or milk; while boiling, 
the meal should be sprinkled slowly on the surface and 
stirred in; when enough is added, the whole should 
simmer for half an hour or longer, with an occasional stir. 
If, however, the oatmeal be imperfectly boiled, as when 
prepared in haste, it is extremely indigestible, and pro¬ 
duces obstinate pyrosis and flatulence; but if well boiled, 
and eaten slowly so as to become thoroughly mixed with 
saliva, it is most wholesome. Oat-meal Gruel is a similar 
preparation, in a more liquid form. It should be boiled 
until every particle of the meal is cooked. It may be made 
with milk instead of water; or part water and part milk, and 
is generally better if strained, as the straining removes the 
irritating husks of the grain. 

Oatmeal in all its forms is somewhat laxative, and often 
causes irritation of the bowels, especially if not sufficiently 
cooked. There are some persons who cannot take it on 
account of the acidity and eructation which it causes. 

Barley, though less employed than formerly in the form 
of bread, is peculiarly rich in phosphates (more than twice 
the amount contained in meat); and, as it is also stimulant 
and laxative to the bowels, might be made useful to literary 
men of sedative habits, who need an increased action both 
of bowels and of brain. Such persons might use it either 
in the form of cakes, or porridge. Barley-water, made from 
pearl barley, forms a. slightly nutritive, bland, and de- 


HYGIENE.-NUTRITIVE FOOD-VALUES. 


87 


tnulcent drink for invalids. It is made by taking about two 
ounces of pearl barley which has been well washed in cold 
water, and boding it in a pint and a half of water for half 
an hour. 

Bye, next to wheat, especially for bread-making, is th# 
best of the cereals; containing more of the heat-producing, 
but less of the muscle and brain-feeding elements than 
wheat. As it contains more waste materials than wheat, it 
is more stimulating or laxative to the bowels, and therefore 
may be useful in constipation. 

Buckwheat is inferior to wheat in nutritive elements, but 
is an excellent heater; and eaten, as it is generally and 
extensively, in the form of cakes for breakfast, with ham, 
sausage, beefsteak, or fish, it serves to keep up the heat for 
a winter’s day. An eminent judge of the U. S. Supreme 
Court used to say that a breakfast of buckwheat-cakes, 
enabled him to do a longer and better day’s-work, than 
anything else. It is a favorite breakfast food all over the 
United States. 

Indian Corn is not adapted for the manufacture of bread 
on account of its deficiency in gluten, unless wheat or rye 
flour be mixed with it. Corn meal is very nutritious, more 
fattening and containing a larger proportion of oily material 
than wheat, with greater production of animal heat. Made 
in the form of bread or cakes either wet up with water, 
milk, or with the addition of suet or molasses, it forms a 
hearty nutritious and healthy food, which is extensively used 
and prized in every part of our country; and, indeed, in 
some parts, forms the main staple of vegetable diet. 

Hominy, which is the grain cracked into two or thre^ 


88 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOK. 


pieces, is excellent food, especially if made from southern 
corn; and, as it contains a full share of muscle-maxing 
material, is peculiarly adapted to laboring men. Its large 
proportion of life-essentials, also adapts it to those who 
follow sedentary and literary occupations. The “small 
hominy ”, of New England, is generally made from the flint 
corn; and containing less of muscle and brain-food, and 
more of the heaters, is best for use in cold weather. 
Hulled corn , also, has all the elements of the corn, except 
those contained in the hull; and, the oil being removed by 
being soaked in some alkali, is very excellent for summer 
use. 

Green corn , or “ corn in the milk,” boiled in fair water in 
the ear, is a nutritious delicacy and though quite laxative is 
widely used and prized by all classes of the people Grated 
from the cob and made into a batter with milk, and fried, 
it forms the most delicious of cakes. 

Rice is said to be the food of nearly one-third of the 
human race. The best comes from the Carolinas. It is 
Useful as an article of diet, whether whole or ground into 
flour; but its deficiency in the muscle, brain and nerve¬ 
supporting elements, and its preponderance of starch, 
renders it one of the poorest of foods for promoting mental 
or muscular strength. One pound of beans would support 
life, in action, as long as four pounds of rice. It, there¬ 
fore, requires the addition of some fat to make up for 
its deficiency in this ingredient. It should be thoroughly 
cooked, whether the grains be ground or remain whole. 
Boiled, or baked with milk and eggs, as rice-pudding, 
it forms a substantial meal, and is especially suitable 


HYGIENE.-NUTRITIVE FOOD-VALUES. 


89 


for invalids, as it does not make great demand on the 
digestive powers. Rice boiled five or six hours forms, on 
cooling, and after the water has been strained off, a jelly 
which is soluble in warm milk, and makes a pleasant change 
of diet. Rice-water is made by washing an ounce of good 
rice in cold water, then macerating it for three hours in a 
quart of water kept at a tepid heat, and afterwards boiling it 
slowly for an hour. It is very useful as a drink in all irrit¬ 
able states of the alimentary tract, as in Dysentery and 
Diarrhoea; and, for young infants, and children suffering from 
Diarrhoea, Indigestion, Constipation, Flatulence, Atrophy, 
or Aphthae, corn flour and similar preparations are very un 
suitable. In all cases, foods which contain traces of bran, 
and also gluten, gum, sugar, cellulose, and saline matter, 
especially the phosphates, in proportion to the starch, are 
to be preferred. 

Beans are rich in nutritive materials, and well adapted to 
strong healthy persons with good digestive powers. Two 
pounds of beans will enable one to do more muscular work 
than three of wheat, and more brain-work than three and a 
half. But, as they are deficient in heating powers, they are 
best eaten with fat pork, or some other heat-making food. 
They are also eaten green, when the starch is not formed; 
but as, in that state, they lack the nutritious element, thej 
require butter or some other heat-giving material. French 
Beans and Scarlet Runners are eaten with the pods before 
they are ripe. In Europe the seeds of the dwarf bean 
are allowed to ripen, and, when stripped from the pods, 
are sold as haricot beans. Small White Beans boiled and 
then baked with salt pork, form the celebrated “Boston 


90 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


Baked Beans/’ so widely known and justly prized by all 
New England people. Peas, contain very nearly the same 
elements, in the same proportions, as beans, but are more 
easily digested. Young, green peas, without their pods, 
are very delicate and nutritious. Old peas should be 
treated as dried peas—soaked, stewed, and crushed—if they 
are to be rendered palatable and digestible. Dried peas, 
split peas, without skins, if well boiled, are excellent food 
for healthy persons. 

Nuts. — Walnuts, Filberts, Almonds, Pecan-nuts, Peanuts, 
Butternuts, etc., are of value as relishes to be eaten after a 
meal. They contain a large proportion of oil and so may 
be rather too heavy for persons of weak digestion; but are 
of value for the phosphates which they so largely contain. 
They should be taken in moderation, at a time when the 
stomach has had some rest and can employ its powers for 
their digestion; they should be thoroughly masticated, so 
that the saliva may act freely throughout the mass; they 
may then be taken by those whose digestion is good, but 
should be avoided by invalids. They are, to some persons, 
more enjoyable if used with a trifle of salt. Chestnuts are 
more indigestible and can rarely be eaten without having 
been roasted, or boiled, or made into a flour and baked. 
Almonds are of two kinds. The hitter almond contains 
elements which, when brought into contact with water, 
develops poisonous products, and consequently when em¬ 
ployed for flavouring puddings, cakes, and liqueurs, has 
proved injurious, and even fatal. The sweet almond is in¬ 
nocuous; but on account of its irritating qualities the skin 
should be removed, bv soaking the nut in warm water; 


HYGiENE.-NUTRITIVE FOOD-VALUES. 


91 


and, if the nut be baked for a little while it may be 
easily broken and pulverised, and thus rendered morf> 
digestible. 

Starch, as an article of diet, is useful in the formation of 
fat and force; but is devoid of nitrogen. It has this recom¬ 
mendation, that it allays the sense of emptiness and hunger 
when other food cannot be taken. But its granules are 
covered with a hard envelope which renders them difficult of 
digestion; and if they be eaten uncooked they pass through 
the canal without yielding up their nutritive properties. 
If, boiled, the envelopes are ruptured, and the contents are 
easily transformed, either by the saliva or the intestinal 
juices, into sugar, and are thus easily assimilated. All pre¬ 
parations of starch should therefore be cooked before they 
are eaten, by stirring them into boiling water or boiling 
milk, and then letting them simmer for a few minutes. If 
prepared with milk instead of water, wine should not be 
added. 

Sago, prepared from the pith of a species of palm, is use¬ 
ful for thickening soups, and making light puddings, which 
with the addition of milk form a light and easily digested 
diet for the invalid. Tapioca , prepared from the root of the 
cassava, is similarly employed and similarly useful. Tapioca 
jelly is an allowable and pleasant dish. The tapioca should 
be soaked in cold water for several hours, and then cooked 
until perfectly clear, adding more water if necessary. "When 
done, sweeten to taste, and flavor with lemon, or wine; and 
when cold eat plain or with cream. Arrowroot possesses 
little nutritive value and little sustaining power; its chief 
merit is that it is bland and easily taken; but some other 


92 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


alimentar) substance should be added to it. The true 
arrowroots (Bermuda, Jamaica, and West Indian) are to be 
preferred for the sick-room, for they will often remain on 
the stomach of an invalid when the others will be rejected. 

We come now to a class of vegetable products containing 
a large proportion of water, which makes them succulent; 
of these the potato takes the lead in importance and dietetic 
value. 

Potatoes are an agreeable and wholesome article of food, 
easily cultivated, kept, and cooked, not always easily 
digested. They also have the recommendation of being, 
anti-scorbutic. In this quality cabbages take the first place, 
and all succulent vegetables share, but potatoes have been 
proved repeatedly to produce a most beneficial effect in the 
prevention and cure of scurvy. 

The proportion of starchy constituents is large, and of 
nitrogenous elements small, so that it is desirable to eat 
with them some other food to supply the deficiency in 
nitrogen, such as meat, fish, bacon, buttermilk, etc., in order 
that a fully nutritious diet may be supplied. When cooked, 
the heat employed coagulates the albumen, the starch 
granules absorb the watery particles, swell, and burst their 
cells, and thus the mass is broken down into a loose, floury, 
or mealy condition. If, however, the absorption is incom¬ 
plete, and the rupture of cells imperfect, the mass remains 
coherent, firm, and waxy. In the former state the potato 
may be easily digested; in the latter it is difficult of di¬ 
gestion. Young potatoes being close and firm are very 
indigestible, but old waxy potatoes are more so. 

Preparation for the TahL e,—The best method of cooking 


HVGIENE.—NUTRITIVE FOOD-VALUES. 


93 


potatoes, is by steaming them in the skin; by this process 
heat penetrates everywhere, and there is no loss of material 
and salts. For this purpose a saucepan, one-fourth full of 
boiling water, is required, into which a closely fitting 
steamer is placed, containing the potatoes, the latter being 
so packed as to allow a free passage for tho steam. If the 
potatoes are boiled, the skins should not be previously 
removed, or a large amount of salts will pass out.* The 
addition of common table salt to the water is advantageous, 
for it helps to retain the natural salts. The boiling should 
be thorough, otherwise the starchy grains are undigested. 
From twenty-five to thirty-five minutes is the time usually 
required, according to the kind of potato boiled. Potatoes 
should be served up immediately they are cooked, and not, 
as is too frequently the case, placed over the fire at half-past 
eleven or twelve for one o’clock dinner. Towards the end 
of the season, old potatoes are improved by being peeled 
overnight and put into cold water, by which process they 
regain, in a measure, their natural color and consistency. 
Potatoes are rendered more digestible by being finally 
mashed, and mixed with a little red gravy as it runs from 
the cut surface of a joint. Roasted potatoes are more 
nutritious than boiled, and Potato soup is a better food by 
the addition of peas. 

Choice of Potatoes .—They should be large and firm to the 
touch, should present no evidence of disease or fungi, 
should not have been exposed to frost; neither should they 


* Dr. Letheby estimates the waste when the skins are removed at 
14 per cent., when not removed at only 3 per cent. 



H 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


be germinating or growing, for then the starch is under¬ 
going a saccharine metamorphosis. Further, when cooked 
they should not be close, watery, or waxy; but floury or 
mealy. 

Carrots make a pleasant change in one’s vegetable fare, 
but are apt in some cases to produce flatulence. The less 
they have of the central yellow part, and the more of the 
outer red part, the better. The Parsnip possesses the same 
general characters as the carrot. Being sweet, it is well 
adapted for children’s use, but should be avoided when old 
and stringy. The Turnip contains a very large proportion 
of water (91 per cent, according to Dr. Letheby), and hence 
is of little nutritive value, and is more difficult of digestion 
than carrots or parsnips. Radishes are somewhat like the 
turnip, but being usually eaten raw, are often indigestible. 

We now turn to another class of vegetables. The leaves, 
shoots, and stems of some plants are valuable for food, 
chiefly on account of the salts they contain, and because 
they give variety to the diet. They should generally be 
grown quickly, in order that woody fibre may be less 
abundantly formed; and without much light, that the 
characteristic properties may not be unduly developed. If 
the chlorophyl, which gives the green color to vegetables, 
be abundant, it is apt to produce purging—indeed, green 
vegetables are always more or less relaxing. They are con¬ 
sequently useful when the bowels are constipated, and must 
be altogether avoided when Diarrhoea or Dysentery is 
present. They possess a high anti-scorbutic value. In all 
cases they should he eaten as fresh as possible , for every hour’s 
delay after they have ceased to grow renders them less digestible. 


HYGIENE.-NUTRITIVE FOOD-VALUES. 


95 


Cabbages, Savoys, Sprouts, Cauliflower, etc., are of the 
same general character; but as the proportion of water 
in their composition is very large, they are not very 
nutritive. Moreover, they are not easy of digestion, and 
therefore not suitable for dyspeptics; while the large pro¬ 
portion of sulphur they contain causes disagreeable flatul¬ 
ence of carbonic acid and sulphuretted hydrogen. Cabbage , 
however, is a most valuable anti-scorbutic, but if ferment¬ 
ation has begun its virtue is destroyed. Bleeding of the 
gums and Purpura are benefited by it. The best sorts of 
cabbage are the old white garden variety and the summer 
cauliflower. They should be soft but crisp before being 
cooked. Spinach is wholesome, and somewhat laxative. 
Rhubarb is eaten as a fruit rather than as vegetable, and 
requires to be well sweetened to make it palatable. As it 
contains oxalate of lime, it should be avoided by those who 
are subject to Calculus. Celery is indigestible when eaten 
raw. If so eaten, it should be with a light lunch of bread 
and cheese, not after a full meal. Stewed in beef gravy it 
makes a delicious and wholesome soup. 

The Asparagus should be eaten as soon as possible after 
being cut. The greenest heads are to be preferred, as they 
contain the largest amount of the peculiar principles of the 
plant. There need be no fear that they will prove injurious 
to the kidneys, as some persons suppose. Slight cases of 
Rheumatism have been cured by eating freely of this plant; 
and chronic cases of rheumatic gout and gravel much 
relieved. 

Onions are very wholesome vegetables, whether eaten 
raw, or stewed, or roasted; they are too strong, however. 


96 


HOMEOPATHIO MENTOR. 


for invalids when they have not been cooked, as they possess 
strongly irritant and stimulating properties. Leeks should 
be white, and have little smell; they are then soft and good s 
and very digestible. Lettuce is agreeable, cooling, and 
digestible as a salad; the juice is mildly soporific. Water¬ 
cress and Mustard-and-Cress form wholesome salad. Cu¬ 
cumber , eaten raw and quite fresh , may be taken with bread 
and cheese as a light lunch, but should not follow a more 
substantial meal, for it is indigestible, and apt to disagree 
with many persons. Stewed, it is light and wholesome. 

Mushrooms , which are generally eaten after being stewed, 
to most persons are not injurious; though by dyspep¬ 
tics they are best avoided, for sometimes they cause colic, 
vomiting, and purging. Those grown in open pastures are 
by far the best. It is not always easy to distinguish mush¬ 
rooms from poisonous fungi, so that some caution is desir¬ 
able in gathering and preparing them for food. 

“A meadow mushroom should peel easily, and it should 
be of a clean pink color inside, like a baby’s hand, and have 
a frill or ‘curtain’ (as botanists, call it) attached to the 
stalk. When the gills are brown they are growing old and 
dry, and losing their nutritive qualities.”— Chambers. 

Vegetable Broths , made of any of the ordinary market 
Vegetables, in season, by boiling and straining, are useful as 
substitutes for animal foods when the latter are not allowed. 
Out of season, dried vegetables may sometimes answer the 
purpose. In preparation of these, and in all other cookery 
for the sick, so far as possible, non-metallic surfaces only 
should be allowed to come in contact with the materials 
employed. A simple method is to put them into an ordin- 


HYGIENE.—NUTRITIVE FOOD-VALUES. 


97 


ary basin or bowl, placing this in a saucepan of water and 
covering the basin with a saucer. The water in the sauce¬ 
pan is made to boil, and thereby the food is duly cooked. 

Fruits are agreeable and refreshing; but as their pro¬ 
portion of water is high and of nitrogenous matter low, they 
are of little nutritive value. When taken in moderation 
they are very wholesome, counteracting the unhealthy con¬ 
dition which attends a diet of dried and salted provisions, 
and promoting a somewhat relaxed state of the bowels. 
Fruit is best eaten in the morning or at lunch. When 
consumed in large quantities fruit may be injurious; parti¬ 
cularly if it be unripe or over-ripe,—in the former case by 
the action of the fruit-acids, in the latter by fermentation 
and decomposition. Fruit is very beneficial to gouty and 
rheumatic subjects, because the alkaline vegetable salts 
become decomposed in the system and diminish the acidity 
of the urine. But patients should avoid acid fruits, if 
Diarrhoea, or Dysentery, is present. The seeds of all fruits 
and vegetables, excepting grapes, if swallowed, may prove 
more or less irritating to the intestines, and in inflamed or 
ulcerated conditions may do irreparable mischief 

Apples are perhaps the most universally valuable of fruits. 
Eaten before or after meals as a dessert, or as an agreeable 
relish between times, if ripe and in proper condition, they 
are a healthy and nutritious article of food. Stewed 
or baked and eaten as a dessert or during the meal, they are 
at once agreeable, nourishing, and easy of digestion. In¬ 
valids can often take stewed or roasted apples when almost 
everything eke is rejected or too heavy. They are decidedly 
beneficial in all cases of Rheumatism or Gout, and are only 


98 


HOMEOPATHIC MEJNTOH. 


to be avoided in cases of Diarrhoea and Dysentery. Roasted 
apples are somewhat laxative, and may be eaten to counter¬ 
act Constipation. Dried apples are prepared for use by being 
stewed. Fears, when ripe, are more digestible than apples: 
but as they decay sooner, they are more likely to produce 
derangements of the bowels. When sound, juicy, and 
ttoluble, they may generally be taken without danger. 

The Orange is one of the most agreeable and useful fruits 
For the sick-room; it is exceedingly grateful and refreshing, 
and is less likely to cause disorder than most other fruits. 
A heavy orange, with a fine thin rind, is usually the most 
juicy and the best adapted for the invalid. But the pulp 
should be carefully excluded. The Lemon is too acid to be 
eaten alone, except that its juice is grateful, refreshing, 
and beneficial in rheumatic affections; but in the form of 
lemonade it makes a cooling and wholesome drink for all 
occasions. Lemon-juice is very valuable as an anti-scor¬ 
butic; so also is lime- juice. Lemon is elsewhere recom¬ 
mended as an addition to tea. 

Plums are less wholesome than most other fruits, unless 
cooked. They produce Colic and Diarrhoea, and are em¬ 
ployed occasionally to promote relaxation in cases of Con¬ 
stipation of the bowels. Cherries also, when unripe or over¬ 
ripe, disorder the bowels. Peaches, and Apricots, when 
quite ripe, yield a delicious food for the invalid, but should 
be most carefully avoided in Dysentery and Diarrhoea; the 
skin should be rejected. Grapes are most refreshing, whole¬ 
some, and nutritious in the sick-room, when ripe, the skins 
and pips being rejected. Raisins ; (dried crapes! contain 
more sucar and less acid than ripe grapes; they are con- 


HYGIENE.-NUTRITIVE FOOD-VALUES. 

sequently more nutritious. If eaten too freely, especially if 
the skins or pips be swallowed, they are apt to disorder the 
stomach. Gooseberries and Currants (red, black, and white) 
are wholesome, cooling, refreshing and laxative in the sick¬ 
room; but generally interdicted in acute diseases. The 
Cranberry is too acid to be eaten raw, but makes an agrees 
able and wholesome sauce, or jelly. The Strawberry is one 
of the most delicate, luscious, and refreshing of summei 
fruits; and may, as a rule, be taken by invalids, except when 
Diarrhoea is present. The Raspberry , too, is agreeable and 
wholesome. So also is the Blackberry , which is credited 
with an astringent, or binding effect upon the bowels—* 
especially in the form of blackberry-wine. Melons not un* 
frequently disagree with those whose digestive powers are 
weak. The Water-melon , forms a most agreeable and re¬ 
freshing luxury, not of much nutritive value, but cooling, 
appetising and a stimulant of the kidneys. During the heats 
©f summer it forms at once a delightful adjunct to any meal 
—and a cheerful solace to a weary system. It should only 
be avoided in Diarrhoea and Dysentery. Musk-Melons , 
Cantelopes , Green-fleshed Melons are sweeter, often with a 
grateful musky odor, and contain a larger proportion of 
nutriment than the water-melon. They too may be eaten 
freely in their season, as the dessert to a repast, or alone— 
the only condition against their use being a relaxed state 
of the bowels. The Pine-apple should not be eaten by 
invalids; the pulp should be rejected if the juice be taken. 

The Fig is sweet and nourishing; its pulp may be eaten 
by invalids, but if eaten too freely will irritate and disorder 
the bowels; the skin is rather indigestible. Olive oil is the 


100 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


most digestible of fatty foods, even more so than fresh 
butter; it should, however, be thoroughly good, pale, clear, 
and free from rancid smell, to justify this estimate. 

Gum arabic, which flows from the acacia in Arabia, Egypt, 
etc., is usually employed in the preparation of drinks. The 
clear gum should be selected, washed, and slowly dissolved 
in cold water. When made of the powdered article or 
with hot water the flavor is less agreeable. When flavored 
with a little sugar it is a refreshing and nourishing bever^ 
age for invalids. Mucilage differs from gum water in 
containing a larger proportion of the gum. It is ad¬ 
mirably adapted for use in inflammation of the mucous 
membranes generally, as in catarrh, bronchitis, etc. 

Sugar , an important alimentary product, chiefly found in 
the vegetable kingdom, also exists in the animal economy, 
and is there known as the sugar-of-milk. The vegetable 
sugar exists in two varieties—cane-sugar and grape-sugar. 
Cane-sugar is very sweet, and crystallizes easily; and though 
usually extracted from the cane, is also obtained from the 
beet-root, and is found in other vegetable forms. Grape 
sugar, or glucose, is inferior in sweetness and crystallizing 
power, and abounds in grapes and other fruits and vege¬ 
tables. It may also be obtained, by chemical change, from 
cane-sugar, starch, gum, etc. It is chiefly used to adulterate 
cane-sugar. Sugar is valuable from a dietetic point of view 
not only as rendering more palatable many articles of food; 
but also as productive of fat and force. As it is readily 
dissolved and diffused, it requires no preliminary digestion 
in order that it may be absorbed through the mucous mem' 
branes. In ordinary cases it does not, therefore, occasion 


HYGIENE.-NUTRITIVE FOOD-VALUES. 


101 


any gastric derangement; but when taken in excess, or by 
some dyspeptics, it is liable to undergo acid fermentation, 
and occasion acidity and flatulence. Sugar-of-milk, how¬ 
ever, does not undergo this change. Coarse brown sugar 
always contains dirt, sand, and occasionally mites. Loaf 
sugar is the most free from adulteration. It should be 
borne in mind that sweetened food is apt soon to cloy the 
appetite of invalids, and that attention must be directed to 
what is savory to secure agreeable chang * 

Sugar is circulated in the sap of trees and plants just be¬ 
fore the unfolding of the buds; and in some species, as in 
the birch and maple, is found in such abundance as to be 
collected and manufactured in large quantities. In the 
northern part of New-England, and in New York State, 
sugar making from the sugar-maple is a large branch of 
industry: the sugar being a most wholesome confection, 
while in the form of syrup, it furnishes the most delicate 
accompaniment to buckwheat, rice, or wheat cakes. 

Treacle , or Molasses is the uncrystallized residue drained 
from brown raw sugar before it is purified, and is not 
objectionable as carbonaceous nutriment. The different 
forms of Syrups in the market are simply treacle purified 
by being re-boiled and filtered through animal charcoal. 
If largely taken these products are laxative. They are 
appropriately taken with all kinds of farinaceous food, 
such as bread-pudding, porridge, etc. Honey is of the 
same dietetic value as sugar, is slightly laxative, and is 
often used in the sick-room as a demulcent and emollient. 

Such condiments as vinegar , salt, and pepper are of real 
dietetic value, as they n^ake the food more tempting to the 


102 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


palate, stimulate a flagging appetite, assist digestion by 
promoting tlie flow of secretions and the movements of the 
alimentary canal, and counteract the action of injurious 
ingredients of food. Their excessive use, however, pro¬ 
motes indigestion, and they are of less value in the sick¬ 
room, salt excepted. The constant presence of this mineral 
in the secretions, and the necessity for it in due proportions 
in the blood, indicate the importance of a proper supply 
with the food. This is evident in the instinctive desire of 
animals, and in our own craving for it when it is not 
supplied in sufficient quantity. It is essential to the 
maintenance of health, and must not be forgotten in the 
diet of the invalid. 

Of the spice-condiments , such as cinnamon, cassia, clove, 
nutmeg, allspice, capsicum, vanilla, etc., it may be said in 
regard to their use, first, that they should not be used at 
all with food that can be relished without their addition; 
second, that that spice only should be used which best 
agrees with the natural taste; third, that the smallest quan¬ 
tity should be used that will satisfy the unperverted taste, 
and the quantity should never be increased. A healthy 
taste and appetite should not demand them at all: and, 
moreover, they each possess medicinal powers, which may 
develope themselves if taken too freely by healthy persons; 
or which may interfere with the proper curative effects of 
medicines taken (homeopathically) by the sick. 

Ginger, however, we consider as less objectionable; and, 
indeed, as a generally allowable condiment. 

Vegetable acids, found in almost all fruits and vegetables, 
render an important service to the human system; but 


HYGIENE.-NUTKIT1YE FOOD-YALXJES. 10S 

Vinegar should not be regarded as an acid naturally adapted 
to the requirements of the system; and should only be used 
when the acid fruits and succulent vegetables cannot be 
procured. 

Vinegar helps the stomach to digest both animal and 
vegetable food, particularly if the fibre is somewhat hard 
and difficult to break up. It is, therefore, the fitting 
accessory to such animal food as invalids should banish 
from their table; but can be made use of by those of weak 
digestion, when they wish to vary their diet with a cool 
salad. In this country the best vinegar is that obtained 
from apple-cider, as made by farmers; and its use is not 
only safe; but, also, if not taken too freely, beneficial. As to 
the manufactured vinegars so largely consumed in city and 
town use, we believe them to be generally so “ doctored ” 
with acids, etc., as to be highly objectionable and dangerous. 

Both cayenne and black pepper , by stimulating the flow of 
gastric juice, are valuable aids to digestion, when used with 
discretion. 


We have said enough already to juove that the subject ol 
food is one necessarily demanding the attention of all who 
have to do with the treatment of disease. By a suitable 
dietary, Medical Science has shown us that many maladies 
may be cured, and many troubles, such as indigestion, 
biliousness, gout, and diabetes, avoided. That the attention 
now paid to our food is not a mere passing fashion, is 
sufficiently evidenced by the fact that our best dietaries are 
becoming more truly scientific, and are engaging the 
ittention of our most eminent minds. The food-combim 



'04 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


ations of the present day indicate an advancing knowledge 
of the wants of the human organism, the requirements of 
its tissues, and of the effects of modern life upon the viscera. 
The Healing Art, which in its earlier days, conducted its 
operations with mystery, now invites the People to become 
its allies in the prevention and cure of disease—and, by 
popularizing the accumulated knowledge of centuries, 
secures for the People a greater degree of safety, comfort, 
and longevity than has obtained in any previous age. 

In nothing is this more evident than in the greater care 
which the medical profession now inculcate and encourage 
among their patients, and the public generally, in regard to 
the preparation of food. 

And it may not be amiss to offer, in this place, a few 
suggestions as to the different 

METHODS OF PKEPAEING FOOD. 

The cooking of food subserves several important purposes 
and demands more intelligent consideration than is usually 
given to it. Good food may be wasted, or spoiled; and 
both the healthy and the diseased may thus be deprived of 
the anticipated flavor and nourishment which it should 
afford them. Cooking removes some things that might 
prove injurious, destroying any parasitic germs that may 
exist. It renders food more pleasant to the eye, agreeable 
to the palate, and digestible by the stomach. It softens 
connective tissue, relaxes muscular fibre, coagulates albumen 
and solidifies fibrin, thus making the whole substance less 
cohesive and more easily masticated, dissolved and assimib 


HYGIENE.-PREPARATION OP FOODS. 


105 


ated. Previous beating and bruising facilitates the process, 
and renders the flesh more tender. The warmth of the 
food also aids digestion. 

In cooking animal food, the following processes are in 
ordinary use; Boiling, Boasting, Broiling, Baking, Frying, 
Stewing. Speaking generally, about one-fourth of the 
weight is lost by cooking; the loss varying with the quality 
of the meat, and the process employed.* A few practical 
hints as to these several processes of cooking are herewith 
given. 


* Hr. Letheby’s estimate of the percentage of this loss, is as follows: 



Boiling 

Baking 

Boasting 

Beef, generally 

20 

29 

31 

Mutton, generally 

20 

31 

35 

** Legs 

20 

32 

33 

** Shoulders 

24 

32 

34 

** Loins 

30 

33 

36 

** Neck 

25 

32 

34 

Average 

23 

31 

34 


This loss arises chiefly from the evaporation of water, the escape of 
'at and nutritive juices, and the destructive action of heat: and, accord¬ 
ing to Dr. L., is least in boiling, greatest in roasting, because in the 
former process there is no evaporation of water. The perfection of 
cooking is to retain, as much as possible of the constituent elements 
of the meat; and this is accomplished, in the different methods 
adopted, by subjecting the meat at first to a strong, quick heat, which 
contracts the fibres, coagulates the albumen at the surface, and thus 
closes up the pores by which the nutritious juices would otherwise 
escape. A lower and less rapidly acting heat will then suffice; for, 
thereafter, the cooking goes on through the agency of the natural 
mcistwj-e of the flesh. Converted into vapor by the heat, a steaming 
takes place, so that, whether in the oven, or in the midst of boiling 
water, the meat is in reality cooked by its own steam. Thus prepared 
the meat will be full of its own juice, which will flow forth as ricl» 
gravy, at the first cui. 




106 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOli. 


Boiling. —The cut should be put suddenly into boiling 
water, and remain at boiling temperature for five or ten 
minutes, cold water should then be added to bring it down 
to about 165 °, at which it should be kept for the whole 
period of cooking. By the contraction and coagulation ot 
albumen caused by the first plunge, the internal juice of the 
meat is prevented from escaping into the surrounding 
water, or from being diluted by the entrance of water 
through the pores. Mutton and fish should be boiled in 
hard water, water to which salt has been added—or in sea¬ 
water. The scum which rises to the top of the water, 
during the boiling of meat, being always useless and un¬ 
wholesome should be removed as completely as possible. 
Boiling is the best form of cooking for vegetables', carrots 
and cabbages can hardly be boiled too long. Soft watei 
is essential for vegetables; they should be thoroughly 
cooked, so as to become soft, then strained in a cullender, 
and served as free from water as possible. Steaming is 
simply a form of boiling them in soft water. 

Roasting is esteemed to be the best method of preparing 
animal food. To retain the nutritive juices, the joint should 
be placed close to a clear, strong fire, for five minutes, 
at first , and then removed to a greater distance until the 
last five minutes, when it should be brought near the fire 
again. The albumen and extractive matters are thus 
hardened into a case, which keeps together the valuable 
fibrinous particles until they have undergone the desired 
changes by slow heat; while objectionable oils generated 
by the charring of the surface, are carried off. The 
dripping is wholesome for the healthy; but indigestible 


HYGIENE.-PREPARATION OF FOODS. 


107 


(especially if burned) when the stomach is at all weak 
From a joint thus thoroughly roasted, the retained gravy 
will flow out freely at the first incision; and the meat* 
while yet red, will have lost all its purple color, even to 
the bone. The time required for roasting meat, depends 
upon the kind of meat, and, also, upon the size and 
weight of the joint. For beef, mutton and goose, fifteen 
minutes for each pound; for veal and pork, an additional 
five minutes; for poultry and game less. Lamb, veal, pork 
and chicken, and all young flesh is better when roasted, 
since the large proportion of albumen and gelatine con¬ 
tained in them, are subjected to less loss than when 
boiled. 

Stewing is midway between roasting and boiling, and is 
by far the best process for digestion. The meat should 
be just covered with cold water, then heated up and kept 
simmering, not boiling, till thoroughly done. The nutri¬ 
tive materials are diffused through the solid and liquid, 
which are then served up together. Hashing is the same 
process with meat previously cooked. But hashed, or 
otherwise, twice cooked meat is unwholesome. 

There is another excellent method—by which the meat is 
stewed in its own vapour alone. It is placed in a covered 
jar; the jar put into water in a saucepan and the water 
made to simmer—when a sufficient time has elapsed, the 
meat will be found to be quite tender and adapted to the 
invalid’s use. 

Soups , Broths , etc.—If, however, it is desirable to extract 
the nutriment so that it may be given in a liquid form, the 
meat should be chopped or minced, put into cold water, and 


108 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


after maceration for a short time, gradually heated to a 
simmering temperature, at which it should be kept for half 
an hour if broth be required. But if soup be wanted the 
heating should go on to boiling point, and be maintained 
there, in order that the gelatine may be extracted to solidify 
the soup. Bones yield abundant gelatine, but require long 
boiling. Minced meat should be put into cold water for a 
time, never into boiling water at first. 

The leanest meat is the best for soup -making; the least 
particle of fat renders it unwholesome as well as nauseous. 
Bones which require long boiling yield abundant gelatine. 

Broiling is simply roasting applied to small portions of 
meat. A beef-steak, or mutton-chop should be done quickly 
on a gridiron over a clear, hot fire, free from smoke, so as 
to retain the juices; it should not, therefore, be pricked with 
a fork. Fish are best when broiled. 

Baking meat is but an imperfect method of roasting ; im¬ 
perfect, because it usually takes place in an oven, which 
generally allows no escape for the volatile fatty acids which 
are generated. Baked meat, therefore, being richer and 
stronger than when roasted before the open fire, is less 
adapted for easy digestion. When, however, it is enclosed 
in a thick pie-dish, or some sort of a crust (like the Cornish 
pie) and slowly baked—no charring occurs; but the fat and 
gravy oozing out, assist the cooking and the result is 
delicious. 

Vegetables should be slowly baked. Eggs should be spar¬ 
ingly used in baked dishes, as prolonged cooking solidifies 
their albumen and renders it more indigestible. 

Frying is a method of cooking not much esteemed, either 


HYGIENE.-PREPARATION OP POODS. 


109 


by physicians, or by persons of refined culinary tastes. The 
fat in which the meat is cooked produces an excess of 
volatile acids; and, when, as often happens, it is burnt, it 
causes flatulence and heartburn. Still, food can be fried so 
as to be wholesome. A perfectly clean frying-pan; a clear 
smokeless fire; good pure, clean fat or clarified dripping, or 
a small quantity of oil, or genuine fresh butter—are 
essentials. Then the frying should be done quickly, lightly, 
and evenly, and with constant motion, so that the oil or fat 
is not allowed to burn. The fat should actually boil and the 
meat, fish, or vegetables be turned around in it till they are 
lightly cooked without being scorched;—then drain the oil 
away, and serve hot. 

Meat, by being salted, is made less nutritious, and more 
difficult of solution by the digestive secretions—and, though 
soaking it in water often softens it and removes the salt 
(“freshens it”) it does not restore the nutritive value. 
Drying is less prejudicial to the meat. Meat preserved in 
cans is too much cooked to be very digestible—and is best 
eaten, when only warmed up, not cooked again, and served 
with vegetables, etc. 

Scrupulous cleanliness in the preparation of food, is ab¬ 
solutely necessary for the comfort of the invalid. A dis¬ 
agreeable flavor remaining in a dish from some previous 
use; or even from materials used to cleanse it, may suffice 
to spoil the taste of something intended to tempt the appe¬ 
tite, or satisfy the fastidious digestion of an invalid. 

Food should be cooked at such a distance, and with such 
precautions that no odor from it can reach the sicJc-room; 
and the bed-room itself is the very last place in the world 


110 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


where food should be prepared. If prepared, too, without 
the knowledge of the patient, it will generally be relished 
more keenly than if he is at first consulted as to what he is- 
to have, and how it is to be cooked. If too great a quantity 
is prepared at once, it destroys the patient’s appetite; while 
that which is left grows stale and unfit for use. Invalids 
should always have their food supplied in such quantity as 
will be a little short of what they can eat. If any remain 
over, it should be immediately removed to a cool place, 
away from the sick-room. Food, milk, fruit, jell} 7 , etc., 
allowed to stand in a sick-room, does not become more 
appetising by being looked at; it deteriorates in quality; and 
,acquires a taint from the atmosphere of the room. Re¬ 
member—that perfect cleanliness alone can give food an 
appetising appearance, and that ignorance and carelessness 
in a sick-room is very objectionable, even when combined 
With any amount of family affection. 

IX. BEVERAGES. 

A man requires, including what he takes with his meals, 
from two to three pints of fluid daily. This includes, also, 
what is taken in the form of fruits, these being largely 
composed of water. Melons, grapes, berries, etc., being 
from 90 to 98 per cent of water, may largely supply its place 
in our foods. Drinks should be taken chiefly with the 
meals; a moderate amount favors digestion, but a large 
amount hinders it. Of course, water is the first, milk the 
second, and fruit the third great provision made by nature 
r the slaking of man’s thirst; of the two latter we have 


HYGIENE.-BEVEKAGES. 


Ill 


already spoken (pages 71 and 97), of the former we shall 
hereafter speak. There are, however, other non-intoxicating 
beverages, such as tea, coffee , cocoa, etc., which are so uni¬ 
versally used in every part of the world, as to claim our 
attention as foods, and in their dietetic relations to disease. 

Tea cannot be regarded as a nutriment, in the sense of 
supplying material to maintain structure, or generate heat 
by its own decomposition; but it is, nevertheless, a very 
valuable article of diet, as shown by experience, and also by 
direct experiments on the vital functions, as its especial 
office is to prevent tissue waste. 

Both experience and direct experiments prove that it is an 
excitor of vital action, and stimulates respiration. Though 
it supplies very little nutritive material, it aids the assimil¬ 
ation and transformation of other foods, increases cheer¬ 
fulness and activity of mind, clears and quickens the brain, 
stimulates the energies and lessens the disposition for sleep. 
Its restorative action on the nervous system renders it a 
boon to weary, anxious, studious, or exhausted persons; and 
it is far preferable to alcoholic stimulants after fatigue. 
Against heat or cold; in nervous exhaustion occasioned by 
bodily exercise, and followed by shortness of breath, 
especially in hot climates, it is also efficacious. While a pro¬ 
moter of digestion in healthy, well-fed persons, it is best 
taken after a meal, when the process of assimilation needs 
quickening; and, if much used with an insufficient amount 
of solid food, as frequently in the case of the poor, is in¬ 
jurious—since it promotes the transformation of food with¬ 
out supplying nourishment, and increases the loss of heat 
without supplying food. The young and the feeble should 


112 


HOM£Of>ATlIICJ MENTOR, 


not use it; nor should it be used too strong or too frequently, 
as it is liable to cause Dyspepsia,—especially that form 
which is accompanied by flatulence. When it causes loss 
of appetite, palpitation of the heart, mental excitement, 
depression of mind and sleeplessness, obviously its use 
Should be discontinued. Children should never have it. 

In the preparation of tea three principles are extracted; 
one aromatic (oil) } another nitrogenous (theine), the other 
astringent and bitter (tannin). The last, the cause of gastric 
disorder, is only given off after prolonged infusion; whereas 
the aromatic oil and theine are completely extracted in 
about two minutes. Hence to make tea, especially for the 
dyspeptic, it should be made by pouring boiling water (not 
water that has boiled) on the leaves, and allowing it to stand 
for two minutes. It may then be poured off into a heated 
teapot, so as to separate it from the leaves. Thus prepared, 
tea is not so likely to cause flatulence; but it is less econ¬ 
omic than the ordinary method, much more tea being 
required to give flavor. If the tea be good the infusion 
will be fragrant, not very deep in color; not harsh nor bitter 
to the taste. The leaves should not be boiled, otherwise 
the peculiar volatile aromatic principle is dissipated; nor, 
for the same reason, should the infusion stand long; in this 
case also too much roughness and bitterness are added to 
the flavor by the extraction of tannin. This tannin, though 
it makes the tea look strong, is worse than useless, inas¬ 
much as it renders the food taken with the tea insoluble 
and indigestible. The finest teas color the water the least. 
In an ordinary infusion the first cup of tea is also the best, 
having more of the choice flavor and aroma, and less of the 


HYGIENE.-BEVERAGES. 


m 


astringency and color. Eiver water makes the best tea; 
soft water is to be preferred to hard; but soda should not 
be used, for it only extracts the astringent tannin. The 
water should only boil once, immediately before using it, 
and not for hours, as is sometimes the case; the teapot 
should be quite dry , as well as hot, when the leaves are put 
into it, and the infusion, as before stated, not allowed to 
exceed two minutes. 

Teapots that retain the heat are better than those that 
allow it to pass off readily; hence unglazed earthenware 
teapots should not be used; but well-glazed earthenware, or 
porcelain, are suitable; and brightly polished silver teapots 
are the best, for they radiate much less heat than any other 
material. 

The Chinese drink their tea without any admixture; the 
Russians add lemon-juice; the English, sugar and cream or 
milk. 

The use of sugar in tea .—Except in small quantity, tea 
should be given up by persons who have a tendency to 
become corpulent. According to some tastes, the flavor of 
tea is improved by substituting lemon for cream or milk, 

.—pouring the hot tea over a slice of lemon cut with the 
rind upon it. Besides being more palatable, the lemon- 
juice more effectually allays thirst, and is especially valuable, 
at those seasons of the year when fruits and fresh vegetables 
are not generally to be obtained. 

Teas are divided into three great classes, Green, Black and 
Scented. Gunpowder, Hyson, young Hyson, Imperial, Japan 
and Java, both colored and uncolored, are Green teas. Among 
Black teas, w^ have Congou, Souchong. Oolong, Orange* 


114 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


Pekoe, Canton. The Black are the allowable Teas in Homoeo- 
pathic practice, as all others are supposed to be artificially 
colored, and thus may have medical or antidotal properties. 
There is a good deal of mystification in the popular mind 
about teas, and their varieties and respective values. There 
is, however, but one kind of plant from which tea is made, 
wherever it is found, although by cultivation it may have 
produced varieties; and the whole principle involved in the 
process of manufacture is not that of any important mechan¬ 
ical change, but simply the drying of the leaf for pre 
servation and for future use with the least possible injury. 

All teas possess approximately the same amont of thcine ; 
and, for dietetic purposes, are all equal, whatever their price. 
But nearly all persons go further than mere utility, and 
seek for luxury in the flavor of tea. Fortunately, the lowest 
priced genuine tea has sufficient flavor to satisfy the desires 
of ordinary consumers. 

Coffee contains the same principle as tea, and hence has 
an analogous influence upon the system. It is, however, 
more heating and stimulating, heavier and more oppressive 
to the digestive organs, and decidedly increases the force 
and frequency of the pulse; while its quickening effect upon 
the mental faculties is not so marked as that of tea- It is 
especially valuable to persons engaged in out-of-doorwork; 
it invigorates without producing subsequent collapse; and, 
taken hot, is an antidote almost equally to heat and cold; in 
both cases beneficially stimulating the nervous system. 
In fatigue, privation, and under ordinary circumstances, 
coffee is preferable to alcoholic beverages. It is useful 
when weary from travel in the heat, with deprivation of food. 


HYGIENE.-BEVERAGES. 


115 


It economises other nourishment by lessening waste. It is 
often serviceable in the headache of nervousness and ex¬ 
haustion, or in cases of Diarrhoea caused by overwork, with 
too much care. A strong infusion helps persons poisoned 
by opium; and allays the effects of the immoderate use oi 
wine and spirits. Its excessive use by nervous persons in¬ 
duces sleeplessness, mental excitement, palpitation and 
indigestion; and, when such results are produced, it should 
be avoided. 

The making of good coffee depends largely upon the 
quantity used. The minimum rule is 1\ oz. to a pint of 
water; soft water being preferable. The French cafe noir 
contains a larger proportion than this. Cafe au bit consists 
of a decoction of strong coffee, to which an equal quantity of 
hot milk is added. It should be remembered that the full 
qualities of coffee are not obtained if water is used at a 
temperature lower than that of the boiling-point. Particles 
of ground coffee are often found suspended in the liquid, 
and isinglass, or white of egg, is sometimes used to refine 
it. Nothing, however, is required beyond pouring a cupful 
out and returning it to the pot, to effect the necessary 
cleaning. The addition of boiling milk, in the proportion 
of one-fourtli part, adds greatly to the flavor and virtue of 
coffee. When taken daily, it should be prepared in an 
enamelled saucepan. The best coffee is Mocha, which is 
best purchased in the form of whole beans, which are to be 
then roasted, ground, and chicory added to taste. The 
roasting is a matter on which the delicacy of the coffee 
greatly depends. If too little roasted, the oil and empyreu- 
matic elements are not developed; if too much roasted, they 


ne 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


may be destroyed Coffee beans, when roasted, may be 
either reddish-brown, chestnut-brown or dark-brown—the 
latter being probably the best. Coffee should be quickly 
ground after roasting, and in a mill, or mortar not used for 
other purposes, as it easily absorbs odors; and when ground 
it should be speedily used, lest it lose its volatile oil. It 
should be kept in an accurately stopped bottle. 

Cocoa and Chocolate are valuable foods, since they are not 
only allied to tea and coffee as respiratory excitants, but 
possess a large quantity of fat and other food materials.* 
Their peculiar active principle, theobromine , resembles the 
theine of tea and the caffeine of coffee, but is less exciting 
than either of these to the nervous system. Chocolate is the 
cocoa beans ground, mixed with sugar; and cocoa-nibs are the 
inside of the beans, roughly broken, and which of course 
are the freest from adulteration of any form of cocoa pre ¬ 
paration; but they need to be boiled many hours in water; 
whereas the prepared cocoa or chocolate is soluble in boiling 
water. The large amount of fatty substance in cocoa 
renders it heavy and oppressive to a weak stomach, and 
thus unsuitable to the dyspeptic or bilious. 

But, with this exception, cocoa is a valuable article of 
diet for strengthning the frame in conditions of debility, 
and sustaining it under prolonged or excessive exertion. 
During nursing it is most useful, tending, probably more 
than any other beverage, to maintain an excellent supply of 
maternal milk—which is somewhat resembles in the com¬ 
bination of its nourishing properties. 

* Of fat about 50 per cent; of albuminoid substances about 20 per 
cent. 



HYGIENE. —BEVERAGES. 


117 


The following is the receipt for making chocolate* 
furnished by Miss Evarts, of Washington, whose prepar¬ 
ation of this delicious drink, at the receptions given by her 
father, the late Secretary of State, assumed the character of 
a veritable “Society sensation”; viz.: Break up the choco¬ 
late and place in a warm spot to melt. Put it in a farina 
kettle and pour on boiling milk, stirring all the while, and 
constantly during the cooking. Let it boil some minutes 
and serve with whipped cream. Use Maillard’s chocolate, 
already sweetened. 

Alcohols. This class of substances usually regarded as 
foods, comprises Spirits (Whisky, Brandy, Gin, Bum, etc.), 
Wine . Beer , Porter , Ale, and other fermented drinks, all 
having the one element, alcohol, in common. But they are 
not, therefore, alike in their effects upon the system. Still, 
we do not propose, in this place, to discuss their special 
points of difference; nor is it necessary that we should, in 
this connection, enter into the moral questions involved in 
the use of liquors. 

Physiological science directly proves, 1. that Alcohol is a 
narcotic, which yearly kills its thousands, slowly, indirectly, 
and by painful disease; 2. that it does not, in any sense, 
supply vital heat, as is so commonly supposed; and that it 
does not prevent the loss of heat as those imagine “who 
take just a drop to keep out the cold ”—in fact, that death, 
by cold is hastened by its use; 3. that, while it gives wha£ 
is called “ a happy fillip to the heart/’ still this increase of 
action is unquestionably injurious to the heart and to the 
body at large, since it subjects both the heart, and the body 
in all its parts, to irregularity of blood-supply; and weaken? 


118 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


and degrades both;* 4. that the so-called stimulation of the 
system by alcohol is, in fact, a relaxation—we might as well 
say, a paralysis of one of the most important mechanisms in 
the animal body, viz.—the minute, resisting, compensating 
circulation; that the temporary excitement it produces is at 
the expense of the animal force, and is in truth wasted force 
^the running down of the animal mechanism before it has 
served out its time of motion; 5. that the brilliancy which it 
gives to the mental powers is but transient; and that to 
the muscular force the very slightest excess of alcoholic in¬ 
fluence is injurious—both mental and physical powers being 
ultimately worse for its use; 6. that, even in the case of long- 
lived steady drinkers it still works its destined end; for, 
while all the organs of the body are being slowly brought 
into a state of adaptation to receive and dispose of it,—in 
that very preparation they are themselves undergoing 
physical changes tending to the destruction of their 
function, and the perversion of their structure—as revealed 
in post-mortem examination, by evidences of alcoholic 
phthisis; of cirrhosis of the liver; of degeneration of kidney; 
of disease of brain-membranes; of disease of the substance 
of the brain and spinal cord; of degeneration of the heart, 
etc., etc. 


* While alcohol stimulates the hearts-action and blood-supply, both 
through the large vessels and the capillaries or extreme small vessels; 
tobacco, acts in a diametrically opposite direction, by diminishing 
the force and volume of the heart’s-action and the capacity of the 
vessels, and so these two mischievous agents, play directly into each 
other’s hands; alcohol calling for the tobacco, and the tobacco answer¬ 
ing by calling for the alcohol, to raise the system from its depressing 
influence.—See. also, tobacco, '^age 12C. 



HYGIENE.-BEVERAG ES. 


110 


We admit that there seem to be moments in tne life ol 
man when the use of alcoholic stimulants appears to lift 
oppression from the heart, lets flow a brisker currant oi 
blood into the flagging organs, aids nutritive changes, and 
is of temporary service to man. If its use could be limited 
to this one action, this one purpose, it would be one of 
Nature’s best gift to mankind. Unhappily, however, the 
border-line between this use and the abuse of it; the 
temptation to extend beyond the use; the habit to apply 
the use when it is not wanted, as readily as when it is 
wanted, far overbalances the temporary value that attaches 
to alcohol as a physiological agent. Hence, it is a dangerous 
thing even in the hands of the strong and wise; it is a 
murderous thing in the hands of the foolish and weak. 

Healthy persons—as well as invalids—should, therefore, 
accustom themselves to do without stimulants, excepting in 
the rare instances when their use is thought to be necessary 
by their medical advisers; and then, like other medicines, 
they should be the best and purest of their kind-—and 
should only be taken —if at all—, with food , or at meal-times. 

Digestion, itself, is not—as is popularly supposed---aided 
by their use. Even a moderate quantity of stimulants 
seems to delay and protract the digestive process—from 
their causing congestion of the gastric glands, whose 
secretory power is thereby lessened or arrested. In otlieff 
cases, they interfere with the solvent cliemical action of the 
gastric juice, if they do not actually decompose it; and, il 
taken in any quantity, they seem to act as a sort of pickle 
or preservative to the food, preventing its ready solution, 
They, also, have a marked tendency to produce an inflamin' 


120 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


ation of the mucous lining of the stomach, kidneys, liver, 
spleen, "bladder, etc. 

Tobacco only requires to be mentioned to deplore its very 
extensive use; to particularize some of the peculiarities, 
of its action, and to council its avoidence. Its especial 
physiological action is upon the circulator}’ system, causing, 
through its effects upon the inhibitory nerves governing the 
action of the heart and large vessels, a weakened impulse cl 
the heart, and diminished caliber of the circulation. This 
is seen in the pallor of the skin, and nausea, from the arrest 
of capillary circulation, in its first action upon persons un¬ 
accustomed to its influence. This diminished circulation 
and consequent impaired nutrition, is very manifest in its 
effects upon the young, causing imperfect development, 
smaller stature, nervousness, impaired circulation and, often, 
disease of the heart as well as other disorders. But, more 
than this, the constant limiting of the heart’s-action and 
diminished blood-supply, tells upon the nutrition, by 
causing a desire or want for something that will unlock the 
circulation and give an impulse to the heart’s-action. This 
is best supplied by alcoholic drinks, and so the use of 
tobacco and whiskey, goes hand in hand; thus tobacco 
is a vast provocation of intemperance and vice. The ex¬ 
pense of tobacco is more than the expense of clothing 
to its average user; while it amounts to more, in a 
life time, than the average savings of the adult man, 
taking the average of the entire United States, as shown 
by the statistics. It is a dirty, degrading habit, every way 
objectionable and without a single redeeming recommen¬ 
dation. 


HYGIENE.-WATER. 


123 


DX WATER. 

Water enters into tlie composition of the tissues of the 
body, forms a necessary part of its structure, and performs 
such important purposes in the animal economy, as to be 
absolutely indispensable for life and health. It gives 
fluidity to the blood, holding in suspension, or solution, the 
red globules, fibrine, albumen, and other substances which 
enter into the different structures; tlie whole body being 
formed from the blood. Not only the soft parts of the 
body, but even the bones, or the materials of which they are 
composed, have at one time flowed in the current of the 
blood. A human body, weighing 154 lbs., contains 111 lbs. 
of water; a fact which suggests the importance of obtaining 
pure water for drinking and cooking purposes. 

Water should be clear, transparent, and free from sus¬ 
pended particles; and should be entirely without smell; 
some colored waters, however, are fairly wholesome when 
the coloring matter is iron, clay or peat; while some clear 
waters are unwholesome from containing organic (decaying 
vegetable-) or animal-matter. Spring-, river-, sea-, surface-, 
well-, and mineral-water, all contain various substances 
dissolved in them, which may render them, without distill¬ 
ation or filtration, unsuitable for drinking, or even tc be 
used in the preparation of articles of diet. Even for 
cooking purposes and bathing, the purer the water is the 
better. Tl^e purest water is obtained Irom deep wells, 
bored through the earth and clay down to xhe lower strata 
of gravel or rock (Artesian Wells). 

It is most important that the receptacles ir water—tanks 


122 


Homeopathic mentoe. 


and cisterns—should be carefully examined and thoroughly 
cleansed at regular seasons, especially after a time oi 
drought and before the approach of winter. Disease is 
often induced, by allowing cisterns to fill up after they hays 
been dry, or the water in them low; the quantity of 
sediment and filth is often very great, and, if not carefully 
washed out, becomes mingled with every fresh influx of 
water, and thus Diphtheria, Enteric Fever, and other blood 
diseases may be set up. They should also be provided 
with a cover to exclude dust and other foreign matter. 

It is a fallacy to suppose that surface-well water is purer 
than that obtained from deep wells, because it is more 
sparkling, and often cooler and clearer. The sparkling of 
these waters is due to the presence of carbonic acid gas, 
derived from the decomposition of animal and vegetable 
substances. 

This matter of the purity of water is of vital importance 
to every family in the land , whether living in the country 
or town. In cases of suspected impurity of water-supply, 
careful and extended search should be made for every 
possible cause of impurity; and, in order to form a proper 
opinion, a chemical and microscopical examination of the 
water is frequently necessary. A rough, and easily available 
test, however, may be applied; half fill a clean stoppered 
bottle with the suspected water, replace the stopper and let 
it stand in a warm place for five days, when there will 
be a disagreeable putrid smell if it contains organic 
matter. If water is bad, either from containing organic 
matter, or from being too “hard,” that used for drinking, 
«ookin£, and washing dishes should first be boiled and then 


HflilENE.-WATER. 


12 ^ 


filtered. Boiling throws down most of the salts which 
causu temporary hardness and crusts in kettles, leaving the 
water much softer; and, after standing a day, or being 
poured from vessel to vessel several times to get back the 
air expelled by heat, (for water needs air to vivify it) it 
is also more palatable. Boiling also destroys some of the 
organic matter, and in most ca^es renders the remainder 
innocuous by destroying the disease-germs. 

When practicable, water used for domestic purposes 
should be filtered. This removes the grosser impurities, 
destroys some of the organic matter; and, if the material 
used be spongy iron, or vegetable charcoal, it will for a 
time remove some of the salts in solution. Whatever the 
filtering-material used, it should be renewed every three 
to twelve weeks, according to the quality and quantity of 
the water passed through it; and filters which claim to last 
for ever, or to be self-cleansing, should be avoided. When 
a filter ceases to do good, it begins to do harm. Com¬ 
pressed charcoal block-filters are cheap and good; one 
can easily be made, in any family.* 

* Filter. —Get a 12-inch flower-pot; cover the hole in the bottom 
with a piece of perforated zinc, and fill in the pot with some well- 
washed gravel, (with the larger pieces below), to a depth of 3 inches; 
above the gravel put 3 inches thick of white sand which ha? 1 been 
well-washed; above this sand place 4 inches thick of good 
(about * lbs. weight) which has been washed in a jug by pouring 
boiling water over it, and when the charcoal has settled, the watei 
poured off and more poured on until it has been washed four times. 
When the filter is finished pour the water to be filtered into the 
flower-pot, and let it run through the hole into a glass-bottle, or 
receptacle, below. If the charcoal gets clogged from continual use, 
scrape some off the top, boil it two or three times, dry it before th« 
fire, and it is greatly benefited. 



124 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


If drinking water is kept in the house, it should be in 
glazed earthenware or stone jars, with covers, which should 
occasionally be emptied and wiped with a clean cloth. 

IY. AIR. 

A proper supply of pure, fresh, air is essential to the pre¬ 
servation, as well as to the enjoyment, of life and health. 
Although life may not be destroyed suddenly by breathing 
an impure atmosphere, still the vital energies are thereby 
slowly but surely impaired; especially in the case of growing 
children and persons suffering from disease. 

Air may be rendered impure in many ways; by gases and 
matters held in suspension; by particles of carbon, hairs, 
fibres of cotton or woolen fabrics; by minute seeds, or 
spores, germs, pollen or other light vegetable bodies; vapors 
arising from decomposing animal and vegetable matter; 
and, also, by the specific virus of contagious diseases. In 
the process of breathing, also, the air loses a third part of 
its oxygen, and receives in exchange carbonic acid gas, a 
gas not only incapable of supporting animal life, but 
actually destructive to it. Such is the change effected by a 
solitary act of breathing; and, if this process goes on in an 
ill-ventilated room, where several human beings are 
gathered together, the carbonic acid gas accumulates, 
usurps the place of the oxygen consumed, and so renders 
the air less and less fit for the renewal of life. 

Efficient ventilation cannot well be secured unless space 
be made for the egress, from the upper part of a room, of 
the impure air*, and provision made, in the lower part, for 


HYGIENE.—AIR. 


125 


access of fresh air from the surrounding atmosphere. Pro¬ 
vision should be made for this process of ventilation in all 
well-constructed houses; and, more especially, in sleeping- 
apartments. This latter is one of the most important require¬ 
ments of life, both in health and disease. Bed-rooms are 
generally too small, and badly ventilated. The doors, 
windows, and even chimneys, are often closed; and every 
aperture closed so as to exclude fresh air. In consequence, 
the atmosphere of the whole apartment becomes highly 
injurious, from the consumption of its oxygen, the form¬ 
ation of carbonic acid, and bodily exhalations. In such 
an atmosphere, the sleep is heavy and unrefreshing, 
partaking more of the character of insensibility. If 
provision were made for the admission of fresh air, and 
the escape of impure air, the sleep would be lighter, 
shorter, and more invigorating. 

The sleeping rooms must be kept well aired and ven¬ 
tilated. Keep the body warm, but throw open wide the 
windows; let the winds of heaven have free play. Dis¬ 
abuse your mind of the idea that night air is pernicious or 
harmful. Night air, as a rule, is purer and contains 
fewer germs of disease than the air of the day. Especially 
so is this true of towns and cities. 

The intelligent physician of today no longer believes 
in miasms or harmful exhalations. Do not be over¬ 
cautious about draughts. The over-zealous hunter of 
draughts usually manages to catch plenty of colds. Learn 
to harden and not to coddle yourself. 

Pneumonia and allied diseases of the respiratory 
passages are now treated by plenty of fresh cold air, 
placing the patient’s bed out of doors or by the open 
windows, removing all screens and giving him the benefit 
of the full draught from the open windows, but keeping 
the patient’s body warm. This treatment has been found 
most beneficial. 

Plenty of good fresh air at all hours and seasons is thfe 
surest and safest way to prolong life and happiness. 


126 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


The sanitary arrangements of schools are often exceed¬ 
ingly defective. Children, being even more sensitive than 
grown persons to the evil effects of bad air, it becomes of 
the utmost importance that the rooms, in which they 
spend so much of their daily lives, should be abundantly 
supplied with fresh air. The school-room should be 
elevated, with a sufficient ventilation near the ceiling; 
and the windows should reach to near the ceiling, with 
facilities for dropping them from the top. 

What is true of school-rooms applies to churches and to 
all law-courts, public-halls, and places where many people, 
are, from time to time, assembled. In such a vitiated 
atmosphere, whether in a public building, or private 
house, the system becomes debilitated and a fruitful 
field for disease. 


V. SUNLIGHT. 

“Where light is not permitted to enter, the physician 
will have to go” is a well-known Italian proverb. Sun¬ 
light is necessary for the health, growth and development 
of human beings, as for plants. Especially is this true of 
children—particularly those who are feeble and delicate. 
Houses are only fit to be used as sleeping-apartments by 
night, when they have been well-aired by day. Rickets, 
deviations and enlargements of the bones, spinal curvatures 
and other deformities are far more liable to occur among 
those living in the shade, or deprived of their due 
proportion of sunlight. Even Cholera, Typhus or other 
epidemic diseases are more frequent and severe on the 
shady than on the sunny sides of the streets. The sun-lit 
sides of hospitals afford twice the number of recoveries, 
to the shady sides, even under the same hygienic and 
medical treatment. Whether your home be large or small , 
give it light. 

Children, even at an early age should not be excluded 


HYGIENE.—SUNLIGHT.—DWELLINGS. 127 

particularly during the warm periods of the year, from the 
genial and cheering influence of the sun. The sanitary 
effect of the light can easily b® made available even during 
the winter months (in rooms properly ventilated and heated) 
with little or no danger. Great benefit would accrue to 
then Health by giving children “solar-air-baths”; that is, 
permitting them to lie naked upon the bed, or floor, free 
from the incumbrance of swaddling clothes, so that their 
bodies may be thoroughly brought under the influence, for 
some period of the day, of good air and bright sunlight 
Except in severe inflammatory diseases of the eyes or brain, 
the very common practice of darkening the sickroom is a 
very objectionable one in many respects. 

VI. HEALTHY DWELLINGS. 

The especial point for a healthy dwelling should be dry^ 
ness; particularly as to the foundation-wall and roof. Tli* 
site should be dry, from which the water will run; and, i? 
not upon a natural slope, the artificial drainage should b® 
perfect. The aspect should be southerly; and the wind 
should have free access to every side. The sleeping-rooms 
should, if possible, face the sun; and the house be above 
the mists or vapors which arise from water, or marshy 
ground, after sun-set. 

The house should not be too closely surrounded by trees, 
or in thick woods, which only serve to attract and retain 
moisture, exclude sunlight, and prevent the free circu¬ 
lation of air. A cheerful situation, with sunlight, green 
trees, fields, shrubs, etc., is always beneficial. If in town 


HOMEOPARHIC MENTCa 


128 

tlie house should face a park, square, or other open piaco, 
or at least be in a wide, airy street, with a favorable aspect. 

In old houses, particularly, we sometimes find that great 
carelessness has been shown in the original planning; so 
that cesspools, and wells for drinking and cooking are in 
close proximity to each other. This affords a source of ex¬ 
treme danger to health. It may be laid down, as an 
absolute rule, that all water-closets, as well as all sinks and 
washing-places, whether for the person or for clothing, should 
he placed as far as possible from the dwelling part of the house; 
and so arranged that any emanations from them will not be 
likely to be carried to the latter, by currents of air. Water- 
dosets should drain into properly constructed, deep, and 
thoroughly-walled vaults, quite separate from the house. 
Into this vault house-drainage of all sorts should flow, and 
well-trapped water-closets should discharge. This vault, and 
the pipes leading thereto should be placed as far as possible 
from the water-supply pipes. These closets, also, whether in¬ 
side or outside of a house, should always be ventilated, by 
shafts for the purpose, leading directly to the open air.. If foul 
odors are, at any time, noticed, their source should be 
pronqitly enquired into, and the leak or other defect reme¬ 
died; kitchen-sinks and stationary wash-stands (when these 
latter nuisances exist) should empty their foul contents by a 
separate outfall from that of the water-closets. As a general 
rule, however well-arranged a system of sewerage a town 
possesses, it is .safer to have the drainage of each house 
provided for separately; and not in common with that of 
the adjoining house or houses. 

Cellars should, also, be kept clean and freely ventilated . 


HYGIENE.-EXERCISE. 


129 


especially when—as in country-houses—quantities of vege¬ 
tables are stored in them for months together. Many a case 
of typlioid-fever has arisen from impure air, engendered by a 
mass of decaying, fermenting vegetable-matter in the cellar, 
for the same reason, refrigerators should be frequently/ 
cleaned and aired. 

Especially should the bed-room, in which one third, at 
least, of the whole life is spent, be particularly well aired and 
cared for. It should be so planned that never less than 400 
cubic feet of space should be given to each occupant, how¬ 
ever good the ventilation may be. The walls should be 
kalsomined, or painted; so that they can be washed three 
or four times a year. The windows should have nothing 
more than a blind, and a half muslin curtain. The floors 
should be well made of hard wood, smooth and well-joined; 
and provided with carpets, or rugs, only around the beds; 
without valances from the beds. The furniture should be 
as simple and scanty as possible; chairs free from all stuff¬ 
ing or covers to catch and hold dust. And especially should 
the room be kept free from all articles of clothing not in 
use. From time to time, a fire should be made in every 
bed-room, that a free current of air may sweep through it 
from open doors and windows. Dry scrubbing is the best 
method of floor-cleansing. Maintain an equal temperature] 
*>f about 60° Falir., and a free access of dry air. 

VII. EXERCISE. 

Exercise strengthens and invigorates every function of 
the body, and *s essential to health and long life. All em¬ 
ployed in sedentary occupations should endeavor to have 


130 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


at least one hour in the day in the open air, walking, riding, 
gardening, etc.,—or, if this cannot be accomplished, then 
the use of the light dumb-bells, or gymnastic practice may 
be substituted. Any action which quickens the breathing 
and pulse is exercise; the object being to eliminate the 
waste products from the blood, by means of the lungs. 
Where too much food and too little exercise are taken, part 
of the carbon which ought to have been burnt off from the 
lungs as carbonic acid, is stored up as fat—and often in the 
wrong place and to the detriment of the individual. 

The walk for health should be diversified, and if possible 
include ascents and descents, and varying scenery; and be 
alternated, when circumstances admit of it, with riding on 
horseback, active gardening, or similar pursuits. Athletic 
sports and manly exercises should form a part of the edu¬ 
cation of youth, nor should they be neglected in after life, 
especially by persons of sedentary pursuits. Many aches 
and pains would rapidly vanish if the circulation were 
quickened by a judicious and regular use of the muscles.* 


* Every one has in his own room the means of exercising every 
■auscle of his body. By standing erect, unencumbered with any 
clothing which shall »0ibarrass the action, and making the motions of 
rapid walking without advancing, at the same time extending the 
arms, expanding the chest, and lifting up and letting down the 
shoulder-blades, we bring into action nearly all the voluntary muscles 
of the body; and then, to give tension and strength to the muscles, 
we may lift some article of furniture, according to the strength, as 
the end of the sofa, the bureau, or the foot or head of the bed, and 
thus get every practical benefit that can be had from the most com¬ 
plicated gymnastic apparatus. If the exercise has been neglected till 
the chest has become contracted and the lungs compressed, we me^* 
need the assistance of some pulleys on the walk attached to weigntv 



HYGIENE.-EXERCISE. 


131 


The proper periods for exercise are when the system is 
not depressed by fasting or fatigue, or oppressed by the 
process of digestion. The robust may take exercise before 
breakfast; but delicate persons, had better defer it till from 
one to three hours after breakfast. After severe and long- 
continued bodily exertions the next meal should be light 
and digestible; and when subjected to continuous exertion 
for many hours together, light digestible food should bo 
given every two hours, to keep a continuous stream of chyle 
pouring into the blood like the fuel into the furnace of a 
steam-boiler. 

In very severe exertion the nervous energy is exhausted 
so far that there is not enough left for proper digestion; 


or springs, so that by placing the back to them, and taking hold and 
pulling forward with the hands over the shoulders, the chest is ex¬ 
panded, and for a time, till we have acquired sufficient tension and 
strength of muscle, we may derive advantage from raising, in a proper 
position, graduated weights; but having acquired the necessary tension 
and power for ordinary purposes of life and health, nothing is gained 
by bringing the muscles into fuller power or activity. All the in¬ 
structions which any man of common sense needs, can be given in 
five minutes; indeed they are all included in the hints given above. 
An intelligent mother, therefore, in her own house, can develop the 
form of her daughter much better than a nrofessional gymnast; and, 
if mothers, when their daughters are beginning to develop into 
womanhood, and to feel the restraints of society, would just regard 
these hints, and insist, as a matter of duty, that they should exercise 
every muscle of the body every day, and conform in other respects to 
the hygienic laws elsewhere described, Nature will do for them all else 
that is necessary to develop perfect forms and perfect health. If this is 
neglected, it is folly to expect that a few months of tuition at a gym¬ 
nasium will do much for them. At most it can only prepare the way 
for domestic exercise in such as have waked up to a sense of duty when 
the health of their daughters has already suffered from neglect, and 
then be of use only as exercise is afterwards continued.— Bellows. 



132 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


thus, if exercise is taken shortly before eating, the sudden de¬ 
mand for nervous energy stops digestion; or, if taken soon 
after , the want of nervous energy prevents digestion, and 
the food lies fermenting in the stomach, causing irritation, 
and laying the foundation of dyspepsia. 

Many nervous diseases are cured, or vastly ameliorated, 
by careful and regular exercise, and occupation. 

Invalids should always be moderate in their exercise; 
take only short walks, avoid fatigue, and not stand in the 
open air. The best time for them is in the forenoon, 
arranged so that they can rest for half an hour before 
dinner. They should never take exercise immediately before 
a meal, or going to bed. 

In the case of very feeble and infirm persons, carriage 
exercise, if such it may be called, and frictions, by means of 
batli-slieets and gloves, over the surface of the body and ex¬ 
tremities, are the best substitutes for active exertion. 

VIII. CLOTHING. 

Clothing serves the threefold purpose of regulating the 
temperature of the body; of protection, and of ornament. 
It has no power of generating heat, but only restrains its 
escape from the person. Approximately, the human body, 
when clothed, resembles a jacketed steam-pipe; the clothing 
forms the outer cover, between which and the body there is 
a layer of steam and heat constantly ascending. The place 
where this current of hot air and steam passes out into the 
atmosphere is the narrow ring between the neck and shirt- 
collar. This opening, therefore, plays an important part in 


HYGIENE.—CLOTHING. 


133 


maintaining the temperature of the human body. If it is 
enlarged, the heat and steam escape more rapidly, and the 
,skin is soon cooled; if, on the contrary, it is wholly or 
partly closed by being closely buttoned, or by a muffler, 
then the loss of steam is stopped, and the temperature of 
,'the skin raised. It is for this reason, that the constant 
wearing of a muffler is so objectionable, because it impedes 
the evaporation of matter which ought to pass out of the 
skin; though, for the same reason, it is of great value in 
case of cold. The neck opening should be ample, so as not 
to compress or impede the circulation from the head. 

While the dampness of the atmosphere affects the evapor¬ 
ation which takes place, through the lungs as well as the 
skin, clothing, by night as by day, regulates that of the 
latter. All covering which impedes this natural process of 
evaporation acts injuriously. Though no material is quite 
faultless in this respect, there is still a great difference in 
their structures. The more impervious they are, the more 
are they to be avoided. India-rubber is the worst material, 
since it does not allow of the passage of any moisture, (as 
for example,—the sweating of the feet when cased in india- 
rubber shoes); leather is next; linen next; cotton is better, 
being porous to a certain extent; but woolen material is, by 
far, the best for wear. A flannel shirt is healthier than a 
cotton one; a woolen blanket at night than a linen sheet. 

Moreover, as the skin’s proper action depends upon the 
circulation of the blood under its surface; and, as the latter 
is promoted by friction, it is evident that a clothing-material 
which induces some friction is also healthier—thus the 
.rougher materials for underclothing, ; &uch ns woolen cr~ 


134 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


coarse ootton, is preferable to the softer, but more enerv¬ 
ating, linen, or silk. Still, there are cases, in which (owing 
to its more delicate nature and texture, as well as to its 
being a non-conductor of electricity) silk is preferable for 
underclothing, in rheumatism, etc. 

Inasmuch, also, as warmth tends to keep open the pores 
of the skin, and open pores are an essential of healthy action 
of the skin and circulation—woolen clothing best secures 
this object—as we have seen that it best secures friction 
and warmth. 

Besides the material of clothing—its cut also is of much 
importance. In warm climates, where clothing is less of a 
necessity, the loosest garments are the best; but, in those 
latitudes where a certain amount of warmth has to be fur¬ 
nished by clothing, the garments must be worn more closely 
fitting. We have already likened the human body to a 
steam-pipe jacketed, where this steam is constantly in an 
ascendant motion; the faster this circulation takes place, 
the more the skin is cooled; and it, therefore, follows that 
the most regular and constant evaporation is maintained by 
close fitting garments. 

Flannel , worn next the skin, should not be used to sleep in, 
but it is suited to the needs of those who labor out of doors 
during great extremes of temperature. Light-colored 
clothes are better for both winter and summer; retaining 
the heat in winter, and protecting from it in summer; they 
also protect better against contagion in the sick-room, oi 
the miasms of unhealthy neighborhoods. 

Clothing should be frequently changed and cleansed 
and dark-colored clothing should be even more cars 


HYGIENE.—BATHING. 135 

fully examined, from its liability to conceal dirt or other 
excreta. 

Summer clothing should not be put on too soon; oi 
winter clothing to late. Thin-soled, or high-heeled boots 
and shoes are often destructive to health. High heeled boots 
should only be mentioned in execration. They produce 
troublesome corns, bunions, inflammation of the ligaments 
of the ankle-joint, and of their sheaths, and even dislocation 
of this joint, beside a change of the inclination of the pelves, 
and a consequent unnatural gait. Tight-lacing is now, 
fortunately, only practiced by the weak-minded. 

The clothing of children, whose feeble frames are less 
able to resist cold than those of adults, is generally insuf¬ 
ficient. When a baby is divested of its long clothes, it is in 
danger of being insufficiently clad; the danger increasing 
when it can run alone, and is more exposed to atmospheric 
influences. It cannot be to strongly impressed upon those 
who have the charge of children, that the practice of leaving 
those parts exposed which when grown up we find it 
necessary to clothe warmly, especially the arms, lower limbs, 
and abdomen, is a frequent cause of retarded growth, 
mesenteric disease, consumption, etc. Insufficient warmth 
of body whether in children or adults, renders the person 
more susceptible to the invasion of disease. 


136 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


IX. BATHING. 

The daily bath is essential to good health and long life. 
The ice cold plunge should be indulged in only by the 
most vigorous and even then is of questionable value. In 
warm weather, baths may be taken at the natural 
temperature of the water; and in cooler weather the chill 
should be taken off, and the bath itself, should be of 
shorter duration. In general the temperature should 
range between 60° and 70° Fahrenheit. 

Cold bathing should not be practiced when the body is 
cold or cooling, or exhausted by exertion or fatigue, or if 
the system is naturally too weak; or when the skin feels 
chilly. A bath should not be taken too soon after a meal, 
nor should the time spent in the bath be too long; from 5 
to 10 minutes being the usual limit. Unless there be a 
glow of reaction, and hence, no subsequent chilliness and 
dulness, no benefit will result, but the contrary. To pro> 
mote this ready reaction and returning glow of the system, 
the friction of coarse towels may be employed with ad¬ 
vantage. Cold bathing is especially hazardous to patients 
who are extremely weak, or who have any organic diseases, 
particularly of heart or lungs; there may, also, be some idio- 
syncracy of condition of the constitution peculiar to the 
individual which renders frequent cold bathing undesirable. 
Caution is more particularly necessary in infancy, and old 
age. The adaptation of the cold bath to individual cases 
may often be determined by the following criterion:—If, 
after a bath, the patient remains chilly, languid, and de- 
jected; or suffers headache, it had better be discontinued. 


HYGIENE.-BATHING. 


137 


and only gradually adopted; but, if the sense of cold rapidly 
passes off, and a glow of warmth and animation of spirits 
succeed and continue for some time, the cold bath is likely 
to be productive of good. 

The warm bath is a great luxury, and to the feeble aY>d 
exhausted frame is often very beneficial. The temperaturt 
may be varied according to the sensations of the patient, 
but as a rule should be that of the temperature of the blood 
—96° to 98°; if higher than 98°, the bath may be followed 
by a profuse perspiration, which weakens the system. 

Sea-bathing is of the greatest value to convalescents from 
acute diseases, to those whose health has been injured by 
excessive work, town residence with sedentary occupation, 
excesses of various kinds, and in many chronic illnesses, 
when debility is not excessive. It should not be indis¬ 
criminate. The propriety of it depends on the health of the 
bather, the temperature of the water, and the motion of the 
sea. Adults in robust health may remain from five to eight 
minutes; or, if they are accustomed to bathe, they may re¬ 
main so long as they feel warm. If the water is very cold 
or the sea is strong, less time should be allowed. Delicate 
persons should choose a smooth sea. Strong persons may 
bathe before breakfast; others only in the forenoon. Sea¬ 
bathing is prejudicial when the body is exhausted, or over¬ 
heated, or cold, or rapidly cooling. Stout, plethoric per¬ 
sons, liable to rushes of blood, palpitation, giddiness, etc., 
should bathe very cautiously. Aged persons should regard 
themselves in this matter as invalids. Persons in feeble 
health and old age should only plunge into the sea, remain 
a minute or two. then lea\e it. Infants, feeble children 


138 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


and timid children are scarcely strong enough for the open 
sea. Injury is done to the feeble by a disregard of their 
imperfect reactionary power, and to the timid by disregard 
of the strain upon their nervous system. Warm glow and 
exhilaration of spirits after the bath indicate its beneficial 
action. On the contrary, chilliness and depression are, 
indications of harm. 

X. THE INFLUENCE OF OCCUPATION ON 
HEALTH. 

Sunlight and ventilation are of the greatest importance in 
workshops and offices, particularly where the young are 
employed, as we have already remarked (p. 126). Patients 
make better and more rapid recoveries in well-lighted 
hospitals; and very serious cases are generally placed on 
the sunny side of such buildings. If, therefore, persons 
*re more likely to regain health in such apartments, we may 
fairly conclude that health will be better preserved in a 
large, well-lighted workshop, or office. Spacious, airy, and 
well-lighted offices and work-rooms for clerks, compositors, 
tailors, dressmakers* and others, would prevent a larg« 
amount of chronic disease. The sedentary occupations 
followed by book-keepers, milliners, sempstresses, tailors, 
shoemakers, and others, are often most unfavorable to 
health, because the sitting posture is generally combined 
with an inclination forwards, so as to compress the chest 
and stomach. Abundance of healthful recreation in the 
open air is the best corrective of the injurious consequences 
of sedentary employments. 


HYGIENE.-INFLUENCE OF OCCUPATION. 


139 


Tho following list, from authentic sources, gives the 
general average of life among certain classes: 

Of 100 Clergymen 42 attained the age of 70 years and upwards., 


Farmers 

40 

ii 

ii 

ct 

Commercial Men 35 

a 

ii 

it 

Military Men 

33 

it 

Ct 

00 

Lawyers 

29 

ii 

it 

if 

Artists 

28 

ii 

it 

C* 

Teachers 

27 

Ct 

it 

Co 

Physicians 

24 

it 

a 

it 


The first half in the above list, with the exception of the 
clergymen, are necessarily much exposed to the air, and 
take physical evercise; but the other half, with the exception 
of the physicians, are chiefly confined in-doors, engaged in 
sedentary occupations. Literary pursuits are generally 
favorable to longevity. Physicians are short-lived, from 
their irregular lives, frequent exposure and the excitements 
attendant upon their practice. The best possible condition 
favorable to longevity would be a certain number of hours 
devoted to study, and in-door work; and, an equal or larger 
time devoted to riding, or out-of-door exercise. The cir¬ 
cumstances which render occupations unhealthy are, de¬ 
ficiency of daylight and pure air; a bad posture of the body 
during employment; and the inhalation of poisonous sub 
stances, or dust, producing irritation of the lungs. 








Che Nursing and Care of the Sick. 

THE SICK-KOOM. 

1. The apartment should be tolerably large; and, if 
possible, with a southern exposure; neither apt to be un¬ 
duly heated by the rays of the sun, nor rendered dull from 
its absence. It should be capable of being well-lighted and 
ventilated. Patients cannot always be cared for in rooms 
which answer all these requirements; but, whatever its de¬ 
fects, the ventilation of the sick-room, whether by window, 
door, or fireplace, must be as thorough as possible—but no 
draughts! The room should have a fireplace with a good 
fire in cold weather, and open in warm weather to assist 
ventilation. During infectious diseases, besides diluting 
the poison with plenty of atmospheric air, dilute carbolic acid, 
maybe freely used as a disinfectant;* and the room should 


* A solution should be frequently sprinkled about the floors, bed¬ 
clothes, handkerchief, etc., and be diffused through the room by a 
spray-producer: it acts quickly as an efficient disinfectant. It may 
also be used for personal disinfection—a point often but indifferently 
carried out—by adding it to the water in which the patient is washed, 
and is a valuable substitute for aromatic vinegar. It also makes an 
excellent gargle, for fever patients, to sweeten the breath. It is also 
useful to visitors of the sick, to prevent the risk from infectious 
diseases; for this purpose, a few drops ahmild be sprinkled o:i the 



NURSING OF THE SICK.—THE SICK-ROOM. 


141 


also be divested of all unnecessary furniture, such as car¬ 
pets, window and bed-hangings, etc. 

2. The room should be provided with an extra bed, or 
some convenient couch, to which the patient should, if 
possible, be removed for a short time at least once in the 
twenty-four hours. This allows the bed to be thoroughly 
changed and aired; ensures a change of atmosphere around 
the patient’s body; and is an agreeable rest to him. It is 
desirable, also, to have a small room in immediate con¬ 
nection with the sick-room, for the nurse to sleep in, and 
carry on the various little operations of preparing food and 
medicine, without risk of annoying the patient. 

The bed and bedding of the sick-room are of no small im¬ 
portance. The bed should not be too high; should be 
without valance, or curtains, to confine the air beneath it; 
and should stand at some little distance from the wall, so 
that the nurse can get at it from every side. It should not 
be in a draught, as between door or window and fireplace; 
and it is better that the patient should be able to lie with 
his back to the window. A simple hair mattrass, or 
sacking-bottom is preferable; but, if feathers must be used, 
put one or two comfortables over the tick, with the linen 
over them, so as to make a firm, even surface. The linen 
of the bed, as well as that of the patient should be changed, 
or, at least, aired and dried by a fire, every day. This 
drying by the fire, dissipates the impure exhalations with 


handkerchief before entering the sick-room. The nse of cologne, 
camphor, burnt rags, vinegar, etc., is not advisable. They merely add 
another smell to the one already existing, and the compound is not an 
improvement. 



142 


HOMEOPATHIC MEtfTOR. 


which it has previously become saturated by contact with 
the patient’s body. It is wonderful to see how much ease 
and comfort is afforded to the sick by a light, cool, bed, 
with its coverings frequently re-arranged and made agree¬ 
able. The feverish restlessness of patients is frequently 
entirely removed by attention to these little comforts. 

3. The apartment should be darkened, when the patient 
sleeps, or wishes to sleep; not by excluding all light and 
air, by closed shutters, or closely-drawn bed-curtains, but 
by letting down the window-shades, so as to secure a sub¬ 
dued light; and, by protecting the patient’s face from the 
direct glare of gas, lamps, etc. Light being a stimulant of 
the brain, frequently causes wakefulness, and excitability in 
the patient, when too freely admitted to the sick-room. 

4. The sick-room should be quiet. Silk dresses and creaky 
boots, the rustling of newspapers, the putting of coals on 
the fire,* etc., often distresses invalids; the tones of the 
voice should be gentle and subdued, but whispering 
avoided; all unnecessary conversation and noise must be 
avoided. The sick should not be fatigued, or over-taxed by 
company, study, business or worry of any kind. If visitors 
call, they must not be allowed to tire and annoy the patient 
with long stories, uninteresting talk, discussion of the 
patient’s disease, or narration of similar cases within their 
knowledge. A short, cheerful, call and pleasant face are al¬ 
ways welcome to the sick, and a kindly interest in their 
case is equally so. Religious conversation is always proper, 

* The very common difficulty of renewing coals upon a fire, or in a 
•tove, while a patient is asleep, can be easily overcome by placing the 
coals in a paper-bag; which can then be laid noiselessly upon the fire. 



HtJRSINO OP THE SICK.—THE SICK-ROOM; 


143 


when conducted intelligently and in a proper spirit; though 
a sick-bed is far from being the best place for this most im¬ 
portant of the duties of life. Books may not be wholly 
interdicted, but the amount and character of reading should 
be proportioned to the strength or mental vigor of the 
patient. In reading to the sick, let it be done slowly and 
distinctly, so that it will not be fatiguing to them to follow 
the reader—so, also, of conversation. 

5. The temperature of the room should be regulated by a 
thermometer, suspended so as to be sheltered from currents 
of air, and from direct heat of the fire—and should be 
varied according to the nature of the patient’s disease. In 
fevers. Inflammation of the Brain, etc., 55° will be a proper 
warmth; in Inflammation of the Lungs, and in Bronchitis, 
a higher temperature—60° to 70°.—is necessary. A warm 
and moist air, so as not to irritate the inflamed lining of the 
air-tubes, is needed in all inflammatory affections of the 
chest. But, whatever may be the temperature—see that 
proper ventilation be maintained. 

6. The sick-room should be made pleasant and cheerful, t 
as well as comfortable. Do not suffer the sick to lay all day 
staring at blank walls, or at strange, unsympathizing faces; 
but remember that flowers, bright and fresh, pictures around 
the room; an occasional change, or re-arrangment, of fur¬ 
niture; or a seat or couch at the window, serve wonder¬ 
fully to cheer and invigorate a patient. 

In this connection, Miss Nightingale’s suggestion as to 
the care of food and medicines in the sick-room, is worthy of 
repetition here. It is this—do not keep the food, drink, or 


144 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


delicacies intended for the patient in the sick-room or 
within his sight. The air and temperature of the apartment 
are liable to hasten putrefactive decomposition, especially 
in hot weather, and the continuous sight of them to cause 
disgust. Rather take up to him, at the fitting time, and by 
way of surprise, two or three teaspoonfuls of jelly, or as 
many fresh grapes as he may consume at once, or the seg¬ 
ment of an orange. Or, if it be appropriate to his condition, 
a small cup of beef-tea, covered, with one or two narrow 
slips of toasted-bread, just from the fire; this is very much 
preferable to offering even a less quantity from a basinful 
that has been kept for many hours within reach of the 
patient’s hand and eye. 

7. The requirements of Contagious-disease patients, Isolation. 
The sick-room for such patients should be in an upper story, 
to present the spread of infection to others; for infectious 
exhalations, being lighter than air, ascend. Precautions. 
Nurses, or mothers who, frequently go in and out of the 
room, should keep a loose wrapper or gown, of some smooth 
washable material (not woolen) hanging behind the door 
(outside), ready to slip on over their other dress whenever 
they enter, before waiting upon the infected patient, and to 
be taken off when leaving the room. 

Outside of, and hanging down over the sick-room door, 
should be suspended a sheet, moistened, from time to time, 
with carbolic-acid and water (two tablespoonsful of the acio 
to two quarts of water), or with Condy's Fluid , 1 to 50; ot 
a solution of chloralum— the two latter being of less pungent 
odor than the carbolic-acid. This is to destroy any disease- 
germs which may pass through the door-way. 


NURSING OF THE SICK.-DISINFECTION. 


145 


In infectious fevers, as Scarlet Fever, etc., when the shin 
begins to peel, the whole body should be thinly anointed 
with carbolic oil (1 part to 40 of oil) which may be washed 
off and reapplied every day; the object being to clog the 
scales of shin and prevent them flying about and so be¬ 
coming a source of infection. When the shin ceases to’ 
peel, the oil may be finally washed off in a warm bath of 
carbolic-acid and water (1 to 240, or two ounces to three 
gallons of water). 

Disinfection , of clothing and of room. Soiled linen should 
at once be put into carbolic-acid and water (1 to 40) till 
convenient to wash it. In cholera, typhoid fever, and yellow 
fever, all the discharges should be disinfected by putting some 
carbolic-acid into the bedpan before each time of using; and 
the stools, etc., after being disinfected, should be buried 
away from wells or running water, or mixed with a larger 
quantity of crude carbolic-acid, say three tablespoonsful, 
before being sent down the water-closet. The patient 
should spit into a vessel of carbolic-acid, and all dishes 
used by him should be disinfected either by boiling water 
or carbolic-acid. 

After the disease is over, the sich-room and contents 
must be thoroughly disinfected. All blankets, books, and. 
small articles should be baked two hours, at a temperature of 
250° F.; this may be done by putting them in a wooden box 
into an ordinary oven. The patient's linen, after being dis¬ 
infected, should be scalded, or boiled, and washed. White 
woolen articles can be baked for two hours at 250° F. with¬ 
out any change except a slight discoloration like that pro¬ 
duced bv washing new flannel. The strength of texture 


146 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


and warmth of blankets are not affected. Cotton, silk, linen 
and paper are not affected by a considerably longer baking. 
At 300° F. white woolen articles are singed, and colored 
wool loses its color, but its strength is little affected in 
appearance. When hair mattrasses are baked they should 
be allowed to stand for two days before making up again, so 
ihat they may recover their natural moisture and not cause 
dust. The furniture and accessible parts of the room can be 
more thoroughly disinfected by disinfectants, in the shape 
of fluids;—such as carbolic-acid, permanganate of potash, 
chloride of zinc, chloralum and boiling water, which are the 
most common;—carbolic acid, however, being neutralizes 
by most of the fluid disinfectants, should always be used 
by itself. 

Final Disinfection of the room itself Remove all bright 
steel or metal articles from the room: paste up all crevices 
and the chinks of windows, fireplaces, etc., with paper. 
Put a bucket of water in the middle of the room, and lay 
the tongs across it, and on the tongs an iron lid, or dish, 
with two pounds of sulphur in it, set fire to the sulphur, 
and shut the door for the night. Any disinfectant vapor 
bo weak that it can be breathed even a single instant is of 
no use; hence it is useless to expose saucers of carbolic- 
acid or bleacliing-powder in the sick-room; the vapors 
merely annoy the patient and do no good. 

Next day the floors should be washed and scoured or 
scalded, if practicable. The -walls should be lime-washed 
—or, if varnished or “ hard-finished,” washed with soap and 
water. If papered, the room should be re-papered. Bed- 
ntead and furniture should be scalded, or washed with car- 


NUBSING OP THE SICK.—THE NUBSfi. 


147 


bolic-acid, soap and water. Finally, the door and windows 
should be left open for a couple of days. This done—and 
all danger of further infection is at an end. 

8. The Nurse. The services of an intelligent, experienced 
nurse form a most important part of the treatment of 
disease. Goodness of heart, a kind and obliging disposition 
and good sense, are indispensable requirements in a nurse. 
Medicine—in some cases—can play but a secondary part in 
the cure of the sick; but good nursing, or care, always play? 
a prominent part. The object of nursing is to place the 
system of the patient in the best possible condition for the 
beneficial action of medicine. It can easily be understood, 
therefore, that a good nurse is the right arm of the phy¬ 
sician, and that a poor one may negative and defeat all hi? 
efforts. "While the nurse should be all attention to the 
wants of the sick, yet she should avoid “fussiness” or 
wearying the patient with unnecessary trifles. She should 
go calmly and quietly about her business, doing cheerfully 
what is necessary to be done, while yet she does not make 
herself the conspicuous subject of the occasion. She should 
dress in quiet, neutral colors; bright colors are distressing 
to the eye, while black is depressing, and may be the tra¬ 
ditional “ last straw.” There is an evil which cannot be too 
severely condemned. It is the rage to prescribe for the 
sick, possessed by almost every body, under every conceiv* 
able variety of circumstances. No matter how severe the 
disease, or how urgent the emergency, nine out of every 
ten persons who call, will tell precisely what will cure tha 
patient, and the remaining person has a doctor just on 
hand to do the work. Usually, the more ignorant the 


i48 


HOMEOPATHIC ME-NTOK. 


Volunteer, the more positive they are of a cure. They who 
know much speak cautiously. Those who know little are 
very positive. Now, if a physician is in attendance, it is his 
business to prescribe and not that of others, and it is a 
Very delicate piece of business, under any circumstances, to 
advise the use of a medicine or a change of treatment or 
medica* attendant. Whilo a physician is in attendance, 
simple justice to him and the welfare of the sick, require 
that his directions should be followed, and his instructions 
obeyed. It must be a rare case, indeed, that justifies the 
interference of outsiders. 

In cases of very sick persons, it may be advisable to call 
in assistance of watchers, but it should be avoided if 
possible. Better, far, have some members of the family take 
turns in watching, and the one in charge near at hand to 
be called in case of emergency. In a majority of cases, 
those that are called in as night watchers are stupid, sleepy, 
ignorant of their duties, or the wants or peculiarities of 
the patient, and do far more harm than good. Avoid them 
if possible. In most cases it is better for the mother, hus¬ 
band, sister, or others of the family, to lie down in the room 
and sleep while the patient sleeps, than to have the house 
and patient kept awake with watchers. 

9. Cleanliness. The mouth should be often wiped with a 
soft wet towel, when there is a crust on the lips and teeth. 
Fears are often expressed that in washing the surface of a 
patient’s body, or even in changing his linen, any eruption 
or rash should be driven in, or that cold should be taken. 
If done properly, there is not the least ground for any such 
tear. The patient should be suoneed over as completely as 


NURSING OF THE SICK.-ACCESSORY MEASURES. 


149 


possible at least once a day with warm or cold water, as 
may be most agreeable to his feelings, and then quickly, but 
carefully, dried with a soft towel. If the patient be much 
exhausted, a small portion only of the skin may be washed 
at a time, and then another, and so on; or, instead, first a 
damp and then a dry towel may be used under the bed¬ 
clothes, so as to disturb the patient as little as possible. 
When there is delirium or apathy, the bladder must be 
emptied, at least, twice in 24 hours, and the nurse must see 
that it is so emptied, lest mischief be done by the retained 
urine. 


ACCESSORY CURATIVE MEASURES. 

There are certain expedients or curative measures, which 
may often be resorted to by nurse or invalid, which, while 
they can scarcely be called parts of medical treatment, yet 
are of so great value, nay, so very indispensable in some 
cases, as to demand particular attention in a treatise on 
domestic medicine. Among these are, especially, the use 
of warm baths , of poultices and fomentations , and of the in¬ 
jection-pipe. 

Warm baths. The warm bath (92° to 98° F.), and the hot 
bath (98° to 112° F.), are remedial agents of great value in 
many affections.* They tend to equalize the general 
temperature of the body, to soothe the nervous system, to 

* For the correct or safe administration of warm baths, a bath- 
thermometer is indispensable. The hand is a very imperfect guide. 
In the absence of a thermometer, the nurse should uncover her arra 
to the elbow and immerse it in the water, as the skin of the elbow is 
4hin and sensitive to any excessive degree of heat. 



150 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


control the action of the heart, to promote perspiration, to 
relax the muscular and cutaneous system, and, especially— 
by recalling to the surface disproportionate accumulations 
of blood in the internal organs—to equalize its distribution 
throughout the body. All severe inflammations and con¬ 
gestions are preceded by a cold chill or rigor, during which 
the hands and feet become cold, the head often hot, and a 
shivering chill extends, often with chattering teeth and blue 
nails, over the whole body, lasting from a few minutes to an 
hour or more, and is succeeded by heat and high fever. It is 
in this initial stage of disease that the judicious use of some 
form of warm bath averts the danger of local congestion, and 
by breaking the chill, breaks also the force of the disease. 

In the diseases of children— Convulsions, Spasmodic 
Croup, Measles, Scarlet Fever , etc., also in Scarlatinal Dropsy, 
and Fevers , the warm bath is of the greatest bciietit. It 
also aids the cure in Inflammation of the kidneys, bladder and 
uterus; at the grand climacteric of women, a general warm 
«>ath, for forty or fifty minutes, once a week, cures or 
prevents many of the ailments incident to the period, by 
promoting free action of the skin. In Spasmodic Stricture 
of the Urethra; in the passage of renal and biliary calculi; in 
Colic and many spasmodic affections of the bowels; in 
Tetanus, Prurigo, Diabetes, Bright’s Disease, and in the 
Melancholy of Insanity, it is often of signal service. 

The following list of the permissable limits of temperature* 
©f various kinds of baths, may bo of use: 

The cold bath 50° F, to 70° F. Vapor Baths. 

“ tepid “ 85° F. “ 92° F. 90° F. to 100° F. 

“ warm “ 92° F. “ 98° F. 100° F. “ 105° F. 

u hot “ 98° F. “ 109° F. \l5 r F “ 130° F 


NURSING OF THE SICK.-HOT BATHS. 


151 


Vapor baths are chiefly of use for Gout, Rheumatism, Skin- 
diseases and commencing colds. One may be extemporized 
by tying a tube over the spout of a kettle and fastening the 
other end in a small basket tied under a cane-bottomed 
Amir; the patient sits on the chair, and is covered, chair 
and all, with a couple of blankets pinned around the throat 
and down the front to the floor. During the bath, one 
or two glasses of cold water may be sipped; and headache, 
if present, may be allayed by cold sponging, or a cold wet 
cloth laid upon the head. After perspiring for 10 or 13 
minutes, the patient may be quickly dried and got to bed. 

The hot foot-bath is, perhaps, the most common and useful 
of hot baths, but some care and knowledge should be exer¬ 
cised in order to derive the greatest amount of benefit from 
it. The vessel should be large and deep enough to permit 
the water to come well up towards the knees. The temper¬ 
ature of the water should be such that the feet can be kept 
in it without inconvenience, and another vessel of hot water 
should be at hand, from which, as the water becomes cooled 
in the bath, the hot water should be, from time to time, 
supplied, so that the temperature may be gradually in¬ 
creased during the entire bath. This should be continued 
from ten to twenty minutes, according to the circumstances 
of the case, or until the patient is relieved, the chill broken, 
or a general perspiration appears. Then let the feet be 
taken from the bath, wiped rapidly dry, with warm cloths, 
and wrapped up comfortably, so as to retain the heat. This 
kind of bath promotes general perspiration, corrects or 
relieves Catarrh, fever, etc., in the incipient stage; is very 
useful in the sudden Suppression of the Menses during the 


152 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


flow, from exposure to cold or wet" relieves Headachy 
Palpitation , hysteric choking , Piles , etc. 

Sitz-baths may be administered in a tin bath, formed foi 
the purpose, with a back; or a very serviceable one may be 
made, by cutting down an ordinary barrel, with a board set 
in it for a back. The patient sits down in the tub, with 
water sufficient to come well up around the hips and over 
the lower abdomen, and is then covered from the neck 
down over the tub so as to retain the vapor, if desirable. 
The bath may be continued from ten to thirty minutes. In 
cases of congestion to the lower abdominal organs , Piles and in 
some severe cases of Dysentery , these seat-baths will be 
found of great value. 

Poultices are used to apply heat and moisture to the skin, 
when it and the underlying structures are inflamed. They 
effect this by relaxing the tension of the parts and promot¬ 
ing perspiration. Almost any soft substance which will 
retain heat and moisture, such as bran, bread , charcoal , lin¬ 
seed, mashed potatoes , etc.*, may be used for the making of 

* Linseed-Meal Poultices .—Boiling water should be poured into a 
heated bowl, and into this the meal quickly sprinkled with one hand, 
while the mixture is constantly stirred with a knife or spatula with 
the other, till a thin smooth dough is formed. If the water be added 
to the meal, little knots are apt to collect. The dough should be 
quickly spread on warmed linen already cut to the required shape, or 
put into a bag, and applied. Linseed-meal retains heat and moisture 
for a long time, but is liable to irritate delicate or inflamed skin. 

Bread Poultices .—Put slices of bread into a basin, pour over them 
boiling water, and place by the fire for a few minutes, when the 
water should be poured off, replaced by fresh boiling water, and this 
again poured off, and the bread pressed, beaten with a fork, and mad® 
into a poultice. Bread poultices are valuable for the:~ bland- nom 
irritating properties. 



HORSING OF TEE SICK.-POULTICES. 


153 


a poultice—which should be quite smooth and free from 
lumps or hardness. Poultices are chiefly useful in the 
following complaints:—Pneumonia, Pleurisy, Bronchitis, 
Pericarditis, Peritonitis, Acute Rheumatism, Lumbago, and 
to mature and facilitate the discharge of matter in Ab** 
scesses, Boils, etc. 

When used to mature Abscesses, or disperse inflam¬ 
mation, poultices should extend beyond the limits of the 
inflamed tissue; but after the discharge, the poultices should 
be very little larger than the opening through which the 
matter is escaping. 

To retain heat for a long time, they should be covered 
with oil-silk, or a layer of cotton wool—which is preferable 
to having a very thick poultice, which might by its weight 
cause inconvenience, or pain. In acute Lumbago , they must 
be applied thick, hot, large enough to cover the affected 
part, and be renewed immediately they become cool. After 
continuing their use for from one to three hours, the skin 
should be wiped dry and covered with flannel, and this 
again with oil-silk. 

Fomentations , by means of flannel wrung out of hot boil¬ 
ing water, are used for purposes similar to poultices, but 


Charcoal Poultices —Uniformly mix charcoal with bread poultice, 
and just before the application of the poultice sprinkle the surface 
with a layer of charcoal. Or charcoal may be sprinkled on a wound 
or ulcer, and a simple bread poultice applied over it. Charcoal 
poultices correct offeusive smells from foul sores, and favor a 
healthier action. 

Carrot Poultices .—Boil carrots quite soft, mash them with a fork 
and apply in the ordinary way. They are said to make wound, 
cleaner and healthiaj 



154 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOE. 


are lighter and less likely to increase the pain of sensitive 
parts. The hot flannel is placed in. stout towelling and 
twisted around, till as much water as possible is squeezed 
out; and, if well wrung, can be applied very hot without 
danger of scalding. When it loses its heat, it should be 
quicldy and deftly replaced with another hot one. In 
Inflammations, Spasms, and pains affecting deeply-seated 
structures, as in the chest or abdomen, and in sprains, etc., 
great relief is often gained by their use. 

Dry Fomentations .—When heat alone is required, and it 
is desirable to avoid the relaxation of tissues which moist¬ 
ure would occasion, dry heated substances—flannel, bran, 
chamomile flowers, salt, sand, etc.—are used. After thor¬ 
oughly heating the substance, it should be placed in a bag 
made for the purpose, and which has also been previously 
heated. Sometimes, as in Spasm and its accompanying 
pain, a thin piece of flat tile, or a plate, heated in an 
oven, and wrapped in warmed flannel, may be employed. 
For mere evanescent heat, flannel, strongly heated before 
the fire, may suffice. 

Injections. Most important—indeed, indispensable—for 
every family, is the use and knowledge of the injection-pipe. 
The best are of rubber, with flexible tube and bulb, coin 
taining the pumping apparatus in the centre, from which 
the suction tube extends a foot, or more, to the reservoir or 
dish containing the charge. The injection is usually luke¬ 
warm water. Sometimes, to a pint of water, a large spoon¬ 
ful of molasses is added; and, if a more active injection is 
yet required, a tablespoonful of salt may be supplied. Very 
generally simple tepid water is sufficient The end of the 


NURSING OF THE SICK.—INJECTIONS. 


155 


tube should be covered with oil, cerate, or lard, and then 
introduced, by gentle manipulation, into the rectum. If 
the object is to dislodge hardened feces, the pipe should be 
inserted, so as to place the water above the hardened mass. 
The pumping should then be continued (slowly and steadily) 
until a pint, quart, or even double that quantity of fluid, has 
been thrown up. The patient should, if possible, lie down 
and retain the injection 10 or 15 minutes. Should one 
injection not succeed, it may be repeated after a half hour 
or more, until the object is obtained. In cases of obstinate 
constipation, a morning injection, with the use of the 
appropriative Remedy, is beneficial. In violent and 
obstinate Colic , a large injection often fully relieves—also, 
in pains in bladder , Womb and Kidneys. Starch water , tepid, 
injections of the consistence of cream, and about two ounces 
in amount, are sometimes very efficacious in checking 
diarrhea; also, in Dysentery , Consumption and Choleraic 
diarrhea of Children. Salt injections, a dessert-spoonful to 
the pint or half pint of water, are excellent for dislodging 
thread-worms—but, as in other, cases treatment is necessary 
to correct the constitutional condition on which the disease 
depends. 

In all cases of fever and threatened convulsions in 
children, arising from hurtful or indigestible food—fruit, 
cake, raisins, oranges, etc., the proper use of the injection- 
pipe, in connection with the medicines, will save the 
patient—is never hurtful, and is a far better expedient than 
the use of pills, cathartics, or even such laxatives as castor 
oil. 

Inhalation , is the act of drawing air, impregnated with 


156 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


the eatery vapor of medicinal substances, into the air- 
passages. Quinsy, catarrhal and ulcerated Sore-throat, chronic 
Bronchitis, Phthisis , etc., may be more or less benefited by 
inhalation. The method of inhaling is very simple, and is 
often done quite effectively, and with less effort, without a 
special inhaler. All that is required is a jug of hot water, 
over which the face may be held, and a towel so arranged 
that it covers the face below the eyes, and surrounds the top 
of the jug, so as to confine the vapor. A few drops of the 
drug to be inhaled being dropped into the hot water, the 
medicine finds ready access to the air-passages through 
both the mouth and the nose. This may be practised for 
five or ten minutes at bed-time; and, if necessary, and the 
patient has not to be exposed to cold air during the day, it 
may be repeated once, twice, or oftener in the day. In 
acute inflammatory diseases of the throat, simple or medi¬ 
cated vapor may be administered as frequently as the 
patient’s strength and other circumstances permit. A 
portion of the drug thus administered reaches the lungs 
ana enters the general circulation; but the chief action of 
the medicated vapor is on the throat and bronchial mucous 
surface. 

In grave, penetrating diseases, Diphtheria, Group, etc., 
where it is desired to keep the atmosphere of the room moist,, 
vapor may be diffused through the apartment, by the steam 
from a large kettle witli a long spout, kept constantly boil¬ 
ing; or, by forming a tent over the bed and covering it with 
blankets, and then bringing a pipe to convey the steam 
from the kettle under it. 

In urgent cases, where suffocation threatens, the room 


DIET OF THE SICK. 


157 


may be quickly filled with vapor, by hanging wet towels 
before a hot fire. In ordinary cases, simply keeping water 
boiling in the centre of the room will sufficiently moisten 
the atmosphere. 

DIET OF THE SICK. 

Homeopathy is not , as is so often asserted by its op¬ 
ponents, “a system of diet”—but of medical treatment, 
Remedies, chosen according to the homeopathic law, are 
but little affected by the food or beverages ordinarily taken; 
so that, beyond the prohibition of certain articles of diet 
which disagree with the patient, interfere with the bodily 
functions, or impose upon weak, or diseased, organs a task 
to which they are unequal, there is but little need to restrict 
the patient’s food. 

The Regimen of the sick, under Homeopathic treatment, 
may, therefore, be reduced to two simple rules, 1. avoid all 
articles of drink or food that are medicinal , and those that 
are irritating , indigestible or injurious to the sick; and 2. to 
use only such as are light, easily digested and nourishing, 
and satisfy the appetite and thirst. 

Aliment allowed— Wheaten Bread, Graham Bread, Arrow 
Root, Sago, Tapioca, Farina, Corn Starch, Rice and Milk, 
Panada, Hominy, Mush, Wheaten Grits, Custards, Beef* 
Mutton or Lamb Chops, Lean part of Ham, Venison, 
Chickens, Poultry, Rabbits, and all Game, Calves’ Foot 
Jelly, Chicken Broth, Fresh Eggs, Scale Fish, Fresh Oysters, 
Ripe Potatoes, Apples, Baked or Stewed, Strawberries, 
Raspberries, Grapes, Ripe Sweet Apples. 

Drinks allowed —Water, Toast Water, Barley or Rice 


158 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


Water, Gum Water, Gruel, flavored or sweetened with Fruit 
Syrups, Milk, Cocoa, Chocolate, Weak Black Tea or Barley 
Coffee, sweetened with Milk and Sugar if desired. 

Avoid— Coffee, Highly Spiced or Fat, Heavy, Indigestible 
Meats, Sausages, Mince Pies, Salt Fish, and Stimulants, 
unless allowed, by attending physician. 

These few hints, together with a careful reference to, and 
study of our chapter on “Nutritive Food Values” (pages 49 
to 104) will sufficiently guide those who have charge of the 
sick. 


HOW TO INTERPRET THE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS 
OF DISEASE. 

The various evidences of an unhealthy action of the 
system, can only properly be estimated at their full value 
by the trained and skilful physician. Yet careful observ¬ 
ation and common-sense, applied to the examination of 
tongue , pulse, temperature , shin, urine, etc., will do much to 
assist even laymen in forming a tolerably accurate idea of 
the nature and severity of diseases which they may have to 
treat. To such the few following brief hints may be of 
value. 

1. The Pulse is the stroke or beat of an artery, caused 
by the wave of blood forced onwards from each beat of the 
heart. It is usually best felt on the radial artery, just above 
the root of the thumb and the joint of the wrist, by slightly 
pressing the first two fingers on the front of the wrist at 
that point. The natural pulse in the adult male is between 
60 and 70 beats per minjute. It is quicker in the morning 


THE SIGNS AND SYMPTOM'S OF DISEASE.-THE PULSE. 159 


than at night, reaching its maximum about noon and its 
minimum about midnight; in old age the pulse becomes 
hard, owing to increased firmness or to structural change in 
the arterial coats. The average number of beats of the 
healthy pulse in the minute, at different ages, is as follows: 
—At birth, 130 to 140; during infancy, 120 to 130; three 
years old, 90 to 95 or 100; five years old about 88; ten 
to fifteen years old, about 78; above fifteen, 65 to 75; 
in old age, 65 to 70; decrepitude, 75 to 80. 

The pulse is influenced, however, by the following and 
other conditions, which should be considered in estimating 
the character of the pulse as a diagnostic sign. It is faster 
in the female than the male, by from six to fourteen beats; 
but this difference only occurs after about the eighth year. 
It is quickened by warmth and heat; by rapid breathing; 
by bodily exertion or mental excitement; it is more fre¬ 
quent in the morning, and after taking stimulants or food; 
it beats faster standing than sitting, and sitting than lying; 
but it is retarded by cold, sleep, fatigue, want of food, and 
by certain drugs. 

In examining the pulse, the points to be noticed are: 
1. Frequency , or number of beats per minute; 2. Fulness , or 
volume; 3. Strength of beat; 4. regularity , or rhythm of beat; 
5. Resistance to pressure of finger. A strong , quick pulse is 
suggestive of inflammation; a quick and weak one of fever 
or weakness; a slow and strong one of pressure on the brain; 
and a slow and weak one of shock, depression, jaundice,—but 
allowances must be made for those sudden irregularities 
Which are often observable under transient excitement 
or temporary depression, especially of nervous persona 


160 


Homeopathic mentor. 


2. The Temperature. In all cases of illness, it is as im¬ 
portant to measure the heat of the body, as to count the 
pulse, or the breathing. The use of the clinical thermo¬ 
meter aids in arriving at definite conclusions, relieves much 
-mental anxiety, and affords a clue, in many cases, to the 
disease, even before its characteristic symptoms have de¬ 
clared themselves. In temperate regions the normal heat 
of the human body, at sheltered parts of its surface, is 98.4° 
Fahr., or a few tenths more or less; and a persistent rising 
above 99.5° or a depression below 97.3° Fahr., are signs of 
some kind of disease. The maintenance of a normal tem¬ 
perature, within the limits above stated, gives a complete 
assurance of the absence of anything beyond local and 
trifling disturbances; but any acute disease unnaturally 
elevates the temperature or animal heat, and many diseases 
are thus indicated some time before they could be detected 
by any other means. It enables us to diagnose decisively 
between an inflammatory and a non-inflammatory disease; 
and to determine the severity of the inflammation. Hy¬ 
steria, it is well known, often simulates inflammatory 
disease; but the temperature of hysterical persons is 
natural, whereas that of persons really suffering from in¬ 
flammation is always raised. 

In acute fevers, the thermometer affords the best means 
of deciding in doubtful cases. Thus, in Typhoid fever, the 
rise of temperature,, or its abnormal fall, often indicates 
what is about to happen one or two days before any change 
in the pulse, or other sign of mischief, may be observed. 

In Consumption, the thermometer affords us most valu¬ 
able diagnostic information, especially in the early stage of 


THU SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF DISEASE.-TEMPERATURE. 161 


tlie disease, when treatment is likely to be of greatest avail. 
During the deposit of tubercle in the lungs, or in any organ 
of the body, the temperature of the patient is always raised 
from 98°, the normal temperature, to 102-3°, or even higher, 
the temperature increasing in proportion to the rapidity ot 
the tubercular deposit. In Measles , the thermometer is 
almost the only means of learning at an earl}’ stage the 
complication of Pneumonia. In Ague , several hours before 
the paroxysm the temperature of the patient's bou, rises 
considerably. In Acute Rheumatism , a temperature of 104° 
is always an alarming symptom, indicating grave compli¬ 
cation, such as involvement of the valves of the heart. In 
short, a temperature of 104° to 105° in any disease, indi¬ 
cates that its progress is not checked, and that compli 
cations are liable to arise. 

In all cases of convalescence, delayed decrease of temper 
ature in Pneumonia, the persistence of a high evening 
temperature in Typhus or Enteric fever, cr in the eruptive 
diseases, and the incomplete attainment of normal temper¬ 
ature, are of great significance. 

The onset of even a slight elevation of temperature 
during convalescence is a warning to exercise renewed care 
©ver the patient, especially in the maintenance of a due 
control over his diet and actions. 

We recommend a straight, self-registering 4-inch ther¬ 
mometer; with a scale; (it will be best to have your family 
physician procure one for you, and give you a few directions . 
how to manage it), and that observations should be made 
with it regularly, noting, at the same time—the pulse and 
breathing. The best way to “take a temperature” is by 


162 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


placing the bulb of the thermometer under the tongue, bj 
the side of the “second wisdom tooth,” requesting the 
patient to close the lips around the stem. It is frequently 
placed, also, in the armpit, and sometimes in the bowel 
—and in every case should be allowed to remain in situ five 
minutes.* The most suitable time for taking temperature 
is from 7 to 9 A. M., and from 5 to 7 P. M. 

In connection with this we may note that the pulse is 
usually increased by about 8 beats per minute for every 
degree of temperature over the normal 98.6° F.; thus, if the 
pulse is 72 with the temperature at 98.6 , it will be 80" 
when the temperature is 99.6°, and 88 when the temper¬ 
ature is 100.6°. 

3. Respiration, (breathing). In ordinary health the 
number of respirations in a minute is from 15 to 20, or one 
breath to every four beats of the pulse; but it is largely 
increased by exercise and various diseases, in which it often 
forms an important sign both as to its frequency and ful¬ 
ness. During sleep and in a few diseases the frequency is 
diminished; if much diminished it is generally an unfavor¬ 
able sign. Expiration is longer than inspiration. 

The points to be noted are: 1. the frequency per minute; 
2. whether respiration is performed chiefly by the ribs 
(thoracic) or by the muscles of the belly (abdominal); 3. if 
the breathing is calm, easy, and fully drawn, or if it is 
short, hurried, forced, or incomplete; 4. if it causes pain, 
or is checked by cough. 


* The temperature of the tongue is 4-5 of a degree; and that of th* 
bowel 1.1-5 of a degree warmer than that of the 



l'HE SIGNS AND SYMPtO^TS OP DISEASE.—T&E TONGUE. Iflfl 

4. The Tongue affords important indications: —Dryness 
points to diminished secretion, and is common in acute and 
febrile diseases; moisture is generally a favorable sign, par- 
ticularly when it succeeds a dry or furred condition. A 
preter-naturally red tongue is common in the course of the 
eruptive fevers; in Gastric and Bilious fevers, and in bad 
cases of Indigestion, the redness is often limited to the 
edges and tip. The “ strawberry ” tongue is a symptom of 
Scarlet fever; the “fissured” tongue of Typhus and Enteric 
fevers- When the tongue is livid or purple , there is defec¬ 
tive oxygenation of the blood. The furred tongue is the 
most marked, and is common in inflammation and irritation 
of the mucous membranes, in diseases of the brain, in all 
varieties of fever, and in almost all acute and dangerous 
maladies. Some persons have usually a coated tongue on 
rising, without any other symptom of disease. This is 
especially the case with tobacco smokers. A uniformly 
white-coated tongue is not very unfavorable; a yellow coat is 
indicative of disordered action of the liver; a brown or blacky 
of a low state of the vital powers, and contamination of the 
blood. The gradual cleaning of the tongue, first from the 
tip and edges, shows a tendency to health, and indicates 
the cleaning of the whole intestinal tract; in less fortunate 
cases, as the tongue gets browner, dirtier, and drier, each 
day, the nervous and muscular systems get weaker, and hope 
is gradually extinguished; when the fur separates in 
patches, leaving a red, glossy surface, it is also unfavorable; 
when the crust is rapidly removed, leaving a raw or dark- 
colored appearance, the prognosis must still be unfavorable. 

5. Pain is often a most important indication of the nature 


1A4 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


and seat of disease, pointing to an interruption of the liar 
inony of the bodily organs; and homeopathic physicians 
insist most strenuously that the distinctive characters of the 
various kinds of pain, should be described as accurately as 
possible by the patient. When attended with a throbbing 
sensation, consequent upon the heart’s action, it is called 
pulsating pain ; when with a feeling of tightness, tensive-, 
when with heat, burning. Nervous pain may be recognised 
by its disposition to follow a certain course, without being 
rigidly limited to one particular part; by its being subject 
to perfect intermissions; and by the suddenness with which 
it comes and goes. Spasmodic pain is mitigated by pres¬ 
sure, by frictions, and by applications of heat; it comes on 
suddenly with greater or less severity, terminating abruptly. 
Inflammatory pain is constant, attended by heat and 
quickened pulse, is increased by movement of the affected 
part, by touch or pressure, and usually mitigated by rest. 
Frequently pain occurs, not in the part diseased, but in a 
distant one. Inflammation of the liver generally first 
shows itself by pain in the right shoulder; inflammation of 
the hip-joint, by pain in the knee; stone in the bladder, by 
pain at the end of the penis; disease of the heart, by pain 
down the left arm, etc. 

6. The Skin, —in health imparts to the touch the sen¬ 
sation of an agreeable temperature, with just sufficient 
moisture to preserve its softness; it is also elastic, smooth, 
and neither too tense nor loose. A harsh, dry , burning heat 
of the skin is indicative of fever, and must be regarded fC 
unfavorable, especially in inflammatory conditions of in¬ 
ternal organs. If this condition be followed by perspiration , 


THE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF DISEASE.-THE SKIN. 165 


coincident with general improvement, it is a favorable in¬ 
dication. Great relief is usually experienced on the occur¬ 
rence of the sweating stage in Ague, Inflammatory fevers, 
etc. On the other hand, complications may be feared if 
perspiration ensue without any amelioration of other 
symptoms. 

Partial or local perspirations indicate a deranged com 
dition of the nervous system, or an affection of the organs 
beneath the perspiring surface. If perspirations occur 
after trifling exertion, they point to excessive weakness. 
Night sweats, of frequent occurrence, not only show de¬ 
bility, but when preceded by chills and fever, indicate a 
hectic and consumptive state of the constitution. 

The color of the skin is also diagnostic. A bluish tint of 
the skin indicates structural disease of the heart. A yellow 
color points to biliary affections. A rich blush of the 
cheeks, especially if it be circumscribed, and the surround¬ 
ing parts pale, indicates an irritable condition of the nerv¬ 
ous system, or a diseased state of the lungs. 

7. The Urine.— The urinary organs are,—the kidneys 
and bladder, with their appendages. The kidneys secrete 
the urine from the blood, and by this process the blood is 
relieved of many impurities, which if retained would give 
rise to disease in the whole system. The secretion oi 
the kidneys reaches the bladder through little channels 
(ureters), and the urine is ultimately discharged through 
the urinary canal (urethra). 

Healthy urine is of a brightish yellow or amber color, a 
tint darker in the morning than in the afternoon, yielding 
a slight am.mon.iacal smell, devoid of unpleasant odor, and 


166 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


precipitating no deposit on standing, or only the merest 
trace of mucus, or of urates from a low temperature. In 
advanced age the urine becomes darker and slightly offen¬ 
sive; it is darker in persons who lead a very active life; 
different varieties of food also produce a marked effect both 
on the color and odor of urine. The stream of urine should 
be round and large, and it should be passed about four to six 
times in twenty-four hours without any pain or straining. 

The average specific gravity of healthy urine is between 
1,020 and 1,025, being in excess of water, which is the 
standard (1,000); and the normal quantity in adults about 
forty ounces in the twenty-four hours. A urinometer in¬ 
dicates the specific gravity. 

In disease, the urine presents many varieties, and furnishes 
valuable indications. Thus, it may be of a dark yellow or 
saffron color, as in Jaundice, or derangement of the liver; 
it may be red or high-colored, and scanty, with quickened 
pulse, as in fever; it may be bloody or slimy, as in affec¬ 
tions of the kidneys or bladder; pale and copious, as in 
nervous and hysterical ailments; it may be heavy, muddy, 
or of a purple color, showing an unfavorable condition of 
the system; or dark or black, indicating putridity. The 
urine may be passed too copiously or scantily, with pain, 
with effort; or it may be retained with difficulty. There 
may be a frequent or uncontrollable desire to micturate, 
with burning or scalding pain; or the pain may be only 
experienced in passing the last few drops; in either case 
local inflammation is indicated. 

The specific gravity of urine in Bright’s disease is 1,015 
to 1,094; diabetic urine, 1,025 to 1,040; in Hysteria it may 
be as low as 1,007. 

In Rheumatic fever, Gout, etc., the urine is abnormally 
acid; while, on the contrary, a loss of nervous power some¬ 
times causes insufficient mucus to be secreted, so that, de¬ 
composition having taken place, the urine is found to be 
alkaline. Heat will produce a deposit in acid urine, but 
not so in alkaline, however large a proportion of albumen 
it may concern. The microscope enables us to detect casts 


THE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF DISEASE.-THE URINE. - 1G7 

of tubes, etc., but it should be remembered that many sub¬ 
stances may have found their way into the vessel, as fibres 
of deal, flannel, or cotton, etc., which bear a sufficient re¬ 
semblance to be mistaken for the above. 

When urine has to be examined, a little should be taken 
from the whole quantity that has been passed during 
twenty-four hours, as it varies greatly in its properties at 
different periods of the day; and after food. 


BLOOD PRESSURE. 

The force exerted by the heart during contraction upon 
the circulation and the pressure of the contained blood in 
the arteries or arterial tension may be accurately measured 
by the sphygmomanometer. In this instrument the blood 
pressure is measured against a column of mercury in terms 
of millimeters. In normal adults under 40 years of age the 
blood pressure varies from 110 mm to 130 mm. It varies 
morning from night, before or after eating. Is increased by 
muscular or mental work, or by anxiety, grief, anger or 
other emotional conditions. Most diseases are indicated 
by increased blood pressure. Oftentimes increased or high 
blood pressure is the first indication of serious disease. 
Lessened blood pressure, below normal, is found in anaemia 
and in cases of toxic poisoning. In children the pressure 
is less than in adults. After 40 years of age there is a 
gradual increase in pressure, 140 being the normal at 60 
years, steadily increasing with advancing years. High 
pressure may indicate cardiac or renal disease and is always 
found in arterio-sclerosis. Often high pressure or tension 
is found in men who work, smoke or drink hard and are 
otherwise in good health, though this condition of good 
health cannot last long, as changes in the arterial coats are 
sure sooner or later to occur. Everyone arriving at the age 
of forty years should have their blood pressure taken by an 
experienced physician and the elasticity of the arteries 
determined- 


How to select, prepare and take the 
Medicines. 


In general, and for slight affections, after having first 
looked over or read the Mentor, a glance at the indications 
will be sufficient to show from what particular vial the me¬ 
dicine is to be taken for any particular disease or symptom. 
Yet, if more than a single dose is required, it will be well 
to read over, in the Mentor, the description of the disease 
or affection which is supposed to be present. 

After having read the directions carefully, and selected 
the proper Kemedy, if the directions are to take the medi¬ 
cine dry, then take six of the pellets from the vial into the 
hand, or a spoon, and thence into the mouth, and let them 
gradually be dissolved, without being chewed, or swallowed 
whole like pills. It is a bad way to turn the vial against 
the tongue, or into the mouth, as the breath contaminates 
and dissolves the pellets. 

Also, it should be recollected that the power of a given 
dose of medicine is increased by being dissolved, or spread 
over a larger surface; so that two small pellets thoroughly 
dissolved in a spoonful of water is a more powerful dose 
than six pellets taken dry. 


HOW TO SELECT, PREPARE AND TAKE THE MEDICINES. 


169 


If the Remedy is to be taken in fluid form, dissolve twelve 
pellets in six dessert-spoonfuls of pure spring or well-water, 
by crushing and stirring the medicine until it entirely dis¬ 
appears. (For grown persons a table-spoonful, and for 
children or infants a dessert or tea-spoonful is a proper 
dose.) 

Two Numbers may often be given in alternation, that is, 
first one, then after the proper interval, tbe other, and so 
on. Where Remedies are to be thus given, let each be pre¬ 
pared according to the above directions, remembering that 
each glass has its separate spoon and cover; and it will be 
even better and safer to prevent mixture or confusion; if 
each tumbler has a lable affixed to it, bearing the Number 
which it contains. 

This alternation of remedies is a favorite mode of treat¬ 
ment, and may be resorted to when all the symptoms do 
not seem to be met by one remedy; or, when really two 
diseases may be present at the same time, as for instance: 
cough and fever; catarrh and dyspepsia; leucorrhea 
and constipation; headache and dyspepsia. In such 
cases the two Remedies may be given alternately with ad¬ 
vantage. 

When we can do so, it is preferable to give a single 
Remedy. In cases where some symptoms does not seem to 
be within the range of the remedy, yet by using it a few 
days, the symptom or complaint often disappears with the 
main disease. 

The best time for taking medicine is in the morning 
on rising and washing the mouth; and, at night on re* 
tiring to rest. 


170 


Homeopathic MenTOH. 


REPETITION OF DOSES. 

The repetition of doses depends much upon circum- 
stances. In acute diseases and in urgent cases, the Remedy 
acts best when dissolved, and a spoonful given every fifteen 
minutes, half-hour, hour, two or four hours, according to 
the urgency of the case, always bearing in mind this rule, 
to diminish the frequency of the doses in proportion as the pa¬ 
tient improves , and to discontinue the Remedy altogether as 
soon as entire relief is afforded. In most cases of chronic 
disease, a dose morning and at night will be sufficient, 01 
at most, three or four times a day. In very many cases a 
dose once per day is quite sufficient, and better than ii 
more frequent. It is not the quantity or frequency of 
doses so much as the appropriateness of the remedy which 
cures the patient; and if a small quantity will not cure, 
there is but little hope of a large one. 



*? fl *2* . . -e 


Disease and Treatment* 

FEVEKS. 

Fevers have usually a precursory stage of some days 4 
consisting of depression, pain in the limbs, headache, 
coated tongue, turns of vertigo, loss of appetite, or general 
lassitude. After this there is either a cold chill or chilliness 
for a day or two, which is followed by high fever, with 
headache, sleeplessness, often delirium, full, quick, hard 
pulse, quick respiration, vertigo on rising or sitting up, 
sometimes vomiting, costive bowels etc. 

This stage continues some days, depending upon the 
gharacter of the fever and treatment, after which, in favor¬ 
able terminations, the pulse by degrees abates, the skin 
gradually becomes moist, the tongue cleans ofl^ appetite 
and strength improve, and the patient becomes convales¬ 
cent. 


GENERAL RULES IN THE TREATMENT 
OF FEVERS. 

Perfect rest of body and mind, freedom from care, an* 
noyance and anxiety, as far as possible. 

The room should be well ventilated, aired and lighted, 
and scrupulously clean. 

The bed should ^e a hair mattress, or a quilt doubled o® 


172 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—FEVERS. 


a straw or other bed, and the bed linen frequently aired 
and changed. 

Pure cold water should be used as drink, and the face, 
hands and body should be frequently sponged off with 
tepid or cool water. 

Toast water, gruel, barley or rice water may be used as 
drink after the fever has a little abated, or drink may be 
made of any mild, fresh or dried fruits, except when there 
is diarrhoea, when fruit drinks should be avoided. 

Gradually a more substantial diet may be allowed, be¬ 
ginning with baked apples, boiled rice, toast bread, jellies, 
meat soups, clam soup, fresh fish, and yet more substantial 
articles of food during convalescence. 

Varieties of Fever are not always sharply defined, and 
not unfrequently a fever assumes a particular character in 
its progress, or begins in one form and changes into an¬ 
other. 


ERETHIC OR SIMPLE FEVER. 

Symptom. —Is usually ushered in by chills or alternate 
chills and flushes, followed by burning heat and dryness of 
the skin; full, quickened pulse, dryness of mouth, lips and 
tongue, the tongue being red, or coated white, thirst, high- 
colored, scanty urine; and constipation. Sometimes, pains 
in loins, headache, loss of appetite, hurried breathing, 
delirium—the symptoms being generally more severe at 
night. Profuse perspiration , bleeding of the nose, diarrhoea, 
or eruptions on body, are generally signs of the decline of 
the fever—and the patient is left weak, but otherwise well. 

The fever lasts from one to three days, or longer. "When 
its symptoms disappear in 12 or 24 hours, it is called 
ephemeral fever —but it may be the precursor of more 
serious disorder. 

Treatment. — Give the Number One, twelve 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


173 


pellets dissolved in six spoonsful of water, of which give a 
spoonful every half-hour during the violence of the chill 
and fever, and then as the heat and uneasiness abate and 
perspiration appears, give at intervals of an hour or two 
hours until entirely cooled off, and convalescence is 
established. This usually requires but a day or two, when 
the patient may be dismissed. 


INFLAMMATORY FEVER. 

Symptoms. —This form of fever commences with a chill 
of some duration, followed by high fever, strong, quick 
pulse, burning heat, red face, severe headache, hurried 
respiration, thirst, tossing and sleeplessness. The symp¬ 
toms are worse in the evening and are better after mid¬ 
night and towards morning. It may continue ten or four¬ 
teen days, unless cut short by this treatment; and, 
if mismanaged by active cathartics, may readily run into 
some grade of slow fever. 

It is caused by sudden check of perspiration, exposure to 
cold damp winds, intense mental emotions, high living, or 
mismanaged febrile attacks. It generally appears in per¬ 
sons oLadult age, full habit and sanguine temperament. 

Treatment. —In this form of fever only the Fever Remedy 
No. On© is required. Dissolve twelve pellets, in six 
large spoonsful of water in a glass; and of the fluid give a 
large spoonful every hour, or even every half hour, at first, 
and so continue giving a spoonful at intervals of an hour 
during the height of the fever; and at longer intervals as 
the surface cools off and the surface grows moist, until the 
full crisis appears and the disease is subdued. 

Sponge off the hands and face, and even the surface of 
the body, frequently during the dry, burning heat, and after 
sweating; and at first during the chill, or if the feet are in- 


174 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—FEVERS. 


dined to be cold, or head very hot, a hot foot-bath will be 
of advantage. This treatment will generally promptly 
relieve and gradually arrest its progress. After the fever 
has subsided, the Number Ten, six pellets four times 
per day, should be given for some days. 

BILIOUS OR GASTRIC FEVER. 

These fevers generally originate in some derange¬ 
ment of the stomach or digestive organs. In the 
origin and progress of the disease the derangement of the 
biliary or gastric system is prominent. It has less of the 
violent heat and inflammatory action than the fever so 
named, and yet not so much of nervous prostration and 
debility, as in typhoid fevers. The bilious form is more 
common in warm or hot climates and in the hot season, than 
in the more temperate regions, while the gastric fever is 
common in more Northerly regions. 

It may be occasioned by great heat and excessive perspi¬ 
ration, which is suddenly checked; or by irritating sub¬ 
stances taken into the stomach; or even by violent emotions 
such as anger, grief or care, or other excitement acting 
upon an irritable temperament, or in common with other 
causes. 

Symptoms. —It has a precursory stage, marked by decided 
gastric or biliary derangement, headache, coated tongue, 
bitter or foul taste, deficient appetite and general depres¬ 
sion. After this there is a more or less prolonged chill, 
followed by sharp, pungent heat of the hands, face and 
surface, violent headache in the forehead, frequently de¬ 
lirium at night, sense of weight and fulness in the region 
of the stomach, nausea and inclination to vomit, belching 
up of wind, and vomiting of acid bile or of mucus mixed 
with bile, tongue thickly coated dirty yellow, bowels are 
frequently tender and at first constipated, afterwards ten- 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


175 


dency to diarrhoea. The face is pale and sickly, white of 
the eyes more or less yellow, pulse quick, tense, sometimes 
intermitting, and the urine is dark, cloudy, often thick and 
turbid. The more the liver is implicated, the more yellow 
the surface, the whites of the eyes, and the darker the urine 
and more yellow and thick coated the tongue. 

The fever is subject to distinct remissions, <eoming on 
after a slight perspiration, and after some hours the fever 
recommences again and there may be a succession of these 
remissions; the more distinct they are, the more favorable 
for the patient. This fever is inclined to terminate in the 
intermittent form, or fever and ague. 

Treatment.— The No. One and the No. Ten are the 
proper remedies in this form of fever. Prepare twelve or 
fourteen pellets of each number in separate glases, half full 
of pure water; and, give for the first twelve hours, and until 
the force of the fever has somewhat abated, the No. One, 
a spoonful every hour. After that, give the two Nos. One 
and Ten, alternately, at intervals of one or two hours, 
according to the heat and intensity of the fever, and con¬ 
tinue these until the violence of the disease is broken; then 
at longer intervals. 

Should a diarrhea come on and threaten to become ex¬ 
hausting, suspend the use of the No. Ten, and in place of 
it give the No. Four, until the diarrhea has abated, and 
then go on again as before. 

Should the disease terminate in a regular Intermittent 
Fever, give the No. Sixteen alternately with the No. Ten, 
every three hours, m solution. 

In the invasive stage, before the fever has declared itself, 
six pellets of No. Ten, taken#dry on the tongue, three time* 
a day, will correct the action of the stomach and liver, and 
arrest the entire disease. 


176 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—"FEVER!* 


TYPHUS FEVER. 

Typhus Fever is defined as an acute specific form of fever 
highly contagious and infectious, continuing from fourteen 
to twenty one days, attended with a lethargic and confused 
condition of mind, an eruption of measles-like appearance, 
and is of unknown origin, probably a germ disease. 

Symptoms.— The precursory stage varies, but is usually 
short, so that the patient generally gives up and takes to his 
bed within the first three days, in marked contrast with the 
protracted invasive stage of Enteric Fever. Sensations of 
uneasiness, soreness or fatigue, loss of appetite, frontal 
headache , and disturbed sleep, are the early symptoms. 
The patient is often seized with a cold chill or rigor, usually 
succeeded by dry heat of the skin, thirst, quick pulse, 
white, dry, often tremulous tongue, scanty and high colored 
urine, sometimes vomiting, heavy look or stupor, prostration 
of strength and muscular pains: towards evening there is 
more irritability and restlessness, and if sleep occurs it 
is unrefreshing, being disturbed by dreams and sudden 
starts. 

The general appearance of a Typhus fever patient is 
well marked and affords a ready means of diagnosis. The 
patient usually lies on his back, with a weary and dull ex¬ 
pression of his face, his eyes heavy and with a dusky flush 
spread uniformly over his cheeks. In the more advanced 
stage of a severe attack he lies with his eyes shut or half 
shut, moaning, and too prostrate to answer questions, to 
put out his tongue or to move himself in bed; or the mouth 
is clenched, the tongue and hands tremble and the muscles 
are twitching and half rigid, and the weakness extreme, so 
that he constantly slips down in the bed. The dryness of 
the mouth, the sordes on the teeth and lips, the hot dry 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


177 


skin and the deafness, are symptoms whicn impress a 
careful observer at once.* 

During the first week the patient complains of headache 
and noises in the ears and subsequently deafness; the con¬ 
junctiva are injected, pupils of the eyes contracted and 
painfully sensitive to light, and often in consequence closed. 


* It is well to note some of the characteristic differences between 
the Typhus, and the Enteric or Typhoid Fever as follows: 


TYPHUS. 

1. Comes on quickly. 

2. Occurs at any age. 

3. Is rare among the better 

classes, except from con¬ 
tagion. 

4. The eruption is of a mulberry 

color, comes out the fourth 
or fifth day, first on the ex¬ 
tremities, and lasts through 
the disease. 

5. The brain is chiefly affected; 

bowels usually natural and 
the evacuations dark, but 
never bloody. 


6. There is a dusky blush on 

the face, neck and shoul¬ 
ders; injected eyes, con¬ 
tracted pupils. 

7. Buns its course in fourteen 

to twenty-one days. 

8. Belapses are of rare occur¬ 

rence. 

9. Tendency to death is by 

Coma, (Stupor), or Pul¬ 
monary Congestion. 

JO. Arises from destitution, over¬ 
crowding, defective ven¬ 
tilation; and spreads by 
contagion. 


ENTERIC. 

1. Commences slowly and in¬ 

sidiously. 

2. Most common in youth and 

childhood. 

3. Is as common among the rich 

as the poor. 

4. The eruption is in rose co¬ 

lored spots, few in num¬ 
ber, generally on the ab¬ 
domen, and appears in 
successive crops. 

5. The bowels chiefly affected, 

evacuations dark yellowish, 
brown and watery; some¬ 
times with hoemcrrhage or 
• even ulceration of intestine 
and the abdomen is 
tumid. 

6. The expression is bright, 

with a hectic blush, lim¬ 
ited to the cheeks; and 
pupils dilated. 

7. Continues from four to six 

weeks. 

8. Belapses are of frequent oc¬ 

currence. 

9. Tendency" to death is by 

Exhaustion, Pneumonia, 
Hemorrhage, or perforation 
of the intestine. 

10. Arises from bad drainage or 
poisoned drinking water; 
decomposed animal mat¬ 
ter; often with defective 
rain fall, or deficient 
ozone. 


178 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-FEVERS. 


He becomes irritable, and bis answers are short and fretful. 
Usually, from the fourth to the eighth day, the mind passes 
from the state of excitement to one of delirium. This 
symptom appears earlier and is more severe in persons in 
the higher walks of life, doubtless in consequence of the 
greater activity of their brain. This is especially the case 
with confusion of ideas as to time and place, persons and 
personal identity, with vague rambling talk, of which 
occasionally he seems conscious, and from which he can be 
roused. Later, the delirium may become active and mania¬ 
cal, or low and muttering. The patient often fancies he is 
two or three persons, and the subject of a series of miseries 
and violence; confined in a dungeon, pursued by enemies 
from whom he vainly flies, or with whom he struggles; and 
he attempts to spring from the bed, to reach the door or 
window to escape from his tormentors; sometimes the de¬ 
lirium passes into a heavy sleep, or, with tremulousness of 
the tongue and hands and twitching of the muscles ( sub - 
sultus tendinum ); bu+ in favorable cases it subsides in two 
or three days. Improvement sometimes sets in quite sud¬ 
denly. Between the thirteenth and seventeenth days the 
patient may fall into a long, deep and quick sleep, awaking 
in twelve or more hours quite refreshed. The powers of 
mind begin again to dawn, the countenance assumes a more 
tranquil aspect, sleep becomes natural and at length con¬ 
valescence is fully established. Diarrhoea sometimes occurs 
and at others the bowels are confined; the evacuations are 
natural or dark, in contrast with the dark yellow stools of 
Enteric Fever, or they may be involuntary. 

The Pulse in Typhus is rarely less than 100 and rises 
from that to 130 per minute. The last, in adults, indicates 
great danger As a rule it gradually increases up to the 
ninth or twelfth day, and then in favorable cases under¬ 
goes a somewhat sudden decline. Such cases generally. 
recover. On the other hand departures from the gradual 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


179 


rise of the pulse indicate complications or dangerous symp¬ 
toms. In fatal cases the pulse usually grow more and more 
rapid, weaker and smaller up to the fatal hour. The 
earliest glimpse of dawning convalescence is shown in the 
pulse. If the pulse is fairly on the decline and especially 
if also stronger and fuller, recovery may be confidently 
predicted. The crisis of Typhus is often only indicated by 
the fall in temperature, indicated by the thermometer and 
the decline of the pulse after having reached its maximum. 
There may be no marked perspiration, no critical diarrhoea, 
or marked alteration of urine or other noticeable phenomena 
of any kind beside. 

The Eruption appears between the fourth and seventh 
days, and consists of irregular slightly elevated spots of a 
mulberry hue, which disappear on pressure, and may be 
scattered singly and minute, or numerous and large, or 
running together. They usually first appear on the ab¬ 
domen and afterwards on the extremities. They at first 
disappear under pressure of the finger, but afterwards 
remain permanent, and in fatal cases remain after death. 

The odor of a Typhus patient is characteristic; offensive, 
pungent, ammonical. Nurses are able thus to recognise the 
disease and grade the degree of danger by the smell. 

The nervous symptoms predominate in Typhus, as the 
poison chiefly acts through the nervous system. Hence, 
extreme restlessness, ringing in the ears, low delirium or 
stupor are invariably present. In fatal cases, about the 
ninth or tenth day, delirium merges into profound coma, 
or the condition known as “coma vigil” comes on. The 
patient lies on his back, eyes wide open, awake but insen¬ 
sible or indifferent to every thing around him, his mouth 
partly open, face expressionless, and incapable of being 
roused. The stools and urine are passed involuntarily. 
Finally the breathing becomes nearly insensible, the pulse 
rapid, feeble, or imperceptible and the transition from life 


ISO 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—FEVER3. 


to death occurs without a gleam of returning conscious¬ 
ness. 

Unfavorable Indications. —Early, furious and persistent 
delirium, with complete sleeplessness; coma vigil; convul¬ 
sions; involuntary twitching of the muscles of the face and 
arms; abundant, persistent, dark rash; dusky countenance, 
livid surface; involuntary persistent diarrhoea; suppression 
of urine; brown hard tremulous tongue; temperature up tc 
105° or higher; sudden and considerable rise of temperaturo 
in the third week; a small, weak, or imperceptable pulse, at 
or above 120°; bed sores, inflammatory or erysipelatous 
swellings; a strong presentiment of death. The prognosis 
is more favorable in children from ten to fifteen years of 
age, and least favorable in adults over fifty. 

Causes. —Overcrowding with defective ventilation , destitution 
and want of cleanliness. —It is often the scourge of the poor 
of large towns; too many occupants in rooms, too many 
houses in circumscribed space, and hence imperfect ven¬ 
tilation of streets and dwellings. Privation , famine from 
failure of crops, commercial distress, strikes, hardships, all 
undermine the constitution and predispose to Typhua 
Dirty dwellings, filthy clothes, personal squalor, are favor- 
ing conditions. There is reason to believe that the poison 
is chiefly transmitted by exhalations from the lungs and 
skin, which, being inhaled, find ready access to the blood. 

Treatment. —The No. One and No. Fourteen are the 
proper remedies for Typhus or Typhoid Fever. Dissolve 
twelve or more pellets of No. One, in six large spoonfuls 
of pure water, of which give a spoonful every two houra 
Prepare also in a separate glass, with separate spoon, the No. 
Fourteen, in the same manner. Give a spoonful once in 
two hours, for the first twenty-four hours, and when 
the heat and fever are high, the Number One 
should only be given. But, after the first two oi 
three days the two Remedies had better be given in alter- 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


181 


nation, one dose (a large spoonful for adults or a teaspoon* 
ful for children) once in two hours, except when the patient 
is sleepmg quietly. The medicine should be prepared fresh 
every day.* 

As accessory measures. —In no other form of fever is it so 
necessary to have the patient in a large, well ventilated 
room, with an abundance of fresh pure air. Have frequent 
changes of the personal and bed linen and of the posture of 
the patient, to prevent congestion and bed sores. Food and 
beverages should be given often and in small quantities, 
at regular intervals, including water, milk and water, toast 
water, weak tea, broth, and beef tea. The tendency to 
death is from exhaustion, and hence the patient should have 
often small quantities of nourishing food; or, if the prost¬ 
ration is great, with irregular circulation or complications, 
wine or brandy should be given also. Frequently sponge 
the hands and face, and occasionally the entire body. 
Keep the patient quiet, and nurse him patiently. 

As Preventives. —Those in the house, and those espe¬ 
cially attending the patient, should take care to avoid the 
contagion. To this end, fresh air, abundant ventilation 
and cleanliness are of the first importance. Persons in 
attendance should avoid the breath, and exhalations from 
the body on opening the bed-clothes, as far as possible, and 
the odor of the discharges. These should be at once re¬ 
moved and the vessels cleansed with hot water. Nurses 
should not be overworked, deprived of rest or fresh air; and 
friends not be worn down by watching, care and anxiety. 
They should also take as preventives or prophylaxes. 


* Should a diarrhea set in with frequent loose stools, give the 
No. Four, six pellets every two hours, in alternation with 
the No. One; or should the evacuations be profuse and 
watery, attended with prostration, the No. Six will be better 
than the No. Four, and should be given in its stead alone if 
there is no fever, or in alternation with No. One if there is still 
considerable faver. 



182 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-FEVERS. 


six pellets of No. One, four times per day. As additional 
means, tlie room should be renovated by whitewashing the 
walls, washing the woodwork with soap and water, and the 
bed-clothes and linen should be washed in water to which 
some chloride of lime has been added. 

ENTEEIC, OE TYPHOID FEVER 

This Fever, so called because the chief pathological 
changes are in the bowels, is a continued and slightly in¬ 
fectious fever, lasting some twenty-eight days and even 
longer, having a few rose-colored dots on the chest, ab¬ 
domen or back, and attended with great feebleness , ab¬ 
dominal pains or tenderness, and diarrhoea, which increases 
with the disease, the discharges being copious, liquid, of 
a light ochre color, putrid and often containing decomposed 
blood. 

Although the words Typhus and Typhoid are similar, 
and the two diseases have many symptoms in common, 
they are essentially different, and some considerations 
make it desirable that the distinction should be early 
understood. Thus, the causes are different and suggest 
different sanitary regulations. Enteric is less contagious 
than Typhus, and the tendency to a fatal issue varying, the 
treatment should be regulated accordingly; and if the 
Enteric Fever be not early recognized, the patient may 
persist in his usual occupation at a time when rest in bed 
would save his strength and moderate the force of the 
disease. For these reasons, it is wise to study the symptoms 
in the light of the tabulated differential diagnosis given 
under the section on Typhus Fever, page 177. 

Our knowledge of Typhoid Fever, its cause, the means 
through which persons become infected, and its prevention, 
has during recent years become greatly extended and 
rendered more precise. 

Typhoid Fever is caused by the introduction of the 
Bacillus Typhosus into the system through the digestive 
tract and alimentary canal. Primarily the bacilli attack and 
find lodgment in the glands of the small intestines, giving 
rise to inflammation and ulceration of these glands, thence 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


183 


they find their way into the general circulation and may be 
found in most of the organs of the body. They are in great 
numbers in the spleen and the gall bladder and duct. In 
these latter organs they thrive, multiply and persist long 
after the patient has apparently recovered. 

The bacilli are thrown off from the system through the 
stools or excreta, the urine, the sputa and the perspiration. 
All these excretions are loaded with the bacilli, and each is 
a source of danger and should be sterilized and rendered 
harmless. All soiled linen or that wet by perspiration or 
the sputa should be at once sterilized by steam or boiling. 
’Nurses handling Typhoid patients should wear rubber gloves. 
It is only in recent years that the great danger of infection 
through the sputa and perspiration has been recognized. 

There are known cases of “carriers” where the subject is 
constantly giving off the bacilli and is a source of danger 
to the community. In these unfortunate cases the bacilli 
persists in the gall bladder and duct for years, though the 
subject himself may never have shown symptoms of Typhoid 
Fever. The bacilli must be introduced through the food 
we eat, or the water or milk we drink. Food, fingers and 
flies are the most common [if not the only means of 
infection—the excretions of patients contaminating the 
water supply and indirectly the milk—bacilli carried by un¬ 
clean hands to food. Flies acting as common carriers from 
excreta to food are most frequent and common means of 
infection. Particles of dust may also carry the bacilli. 

In the Boer war the British lost 8,000 men through 
Typhoid Fever attributed to typhoid laden dust particles, 
l.i the Spanish American war, the U. S. army lost 1,580 
men or 142 cases out of every 1,000, in camp, or fifteen 
deaths in every thousand men. These cases were attributed 
to flies carrying the bacilli from the latrines or cesspools 
and depositing them on the food. 

Since the Spanish American war Dr. Almoth Wright of 
England introduced inoculation of dried and prepared 
bacilli as a means of preventing typhoid. This method of 
inoculation has been successfully used in the armies azul 


184 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT. —FEVERS. 


navies of tlie world, and is being generally and successfully 
used wherever large bodies of human beings are con¬ 
gregated as a means of prevention. 

By inoculation a mild type of typhoid is created, thus 
securing immunity to a severer form, a procedure homeo¬ 
pathic in principle, “like cures like”. 

Inoculation is seldom performed on subjects over 45 years 
of age, as after that age Typhoid Fever is comparatively rare. 

Symptoms.— These may be conveniently divided into 1. 
the period of accession and 2. the three weekly periods. 

Unless the poison is very concentrated there is a period 
of incubation, varying from seven to fourteen days, after 
which the disease sets in slowly and insidiously. The 
patient becomes languid and indisposed to exertion; is 
chilly and unwilling to leave the fire; the back aches and 
the legs tremble; the appetite fails and there may be even 
nausea and stomach sickness; the tongue is white, the 
breath offensive and often the throat is sore; the bowels 
are generally relaxed; the pulse is quickened and sleep 
disturbed. These symptoms gradually increasing, the 
patient will probably have rigors succeeded by increased 
heat, severe headache and such muscular debility that he 
takes to his bed. This is the accession. The course of the 
fever may now be divided into three weekly periods. 

First Week.— The more prominent symptoms are: vascu 
lar excitement and nervous oppression, including a bound 
ing pulse, (90 per minute), great heat of skin, thirst and ob¬ 
scured mental faculties; the patient cannot give a coherent, 
account of himself, complains of little except his head, and 
is usually delirious at night. The abdomen enlarges, drum¬ 
like on percussion, and there is tenderness and even pain on 
firm pressure, especially in the right iliac fossa , near the 
termination of the small intestine, and where also a peculiar 
gurgling sensation is conveyed to the fingers on pressure. 

Second Week. —The debility and emaciation become 
more marked, the muscles as well as the fat wasting; the 
urine is scanty and heavy, loaded with urea from wastiner 


homeopathic mentor. 


of nitrogenous tissues. During the second week there is 
also frequent diarrhoea , which usually increases to five, 
six, or even more stools, in the twenty four hours. The 
peculiar character of the evacuations is marked, as fol¬ 
lows:— Fluidity; pale ochre or drab color ; sickly , putrid odor; 
absence of bile; and a focculent debris , of disintegrated 
glands of the ilium. This debris may be discovered by 
washing the discharges. It is also noticeable that, often 
before a patient takes his bed or a decided looseness of 
his bowels sets in, the feces are of a light ochre color and 
furnish the most marked of the early signs of Enteric 
fever. 

Third Week:— The debility and emaciation become ex¬ 
treme; the patient lies extended on his back, sinking 
towards the foot of the bed, without making an effort to 
change his position. There is a bright or pinkish flush 
of the cheeks in strong contrast with the surrounding 
pale skin; sordes gather on the mucus membrane of the 
mouth and lips; the tongue is dry and brown, or red and 
glazed, and often rough and stiff like old leather; the urine 
is frequently retained, from inactivity of the bladder; the 
feces pass without control; the tendons start, from irregular 
and feeble contraction of the muscles; the patient picks 
vacantly at the bed clothes, or grasps at hovering black 
spots which appear to his vision; he becomes deaf, no 
longer knows his friends; and, on recovery has little or no 
remembrance of what has at this time occurred, and in 
most cases the intellectual powers will be impaired for 
some time after convalescence. 

In the majority of fatal cases death occurs about the end 
of the third week; and it is also noticeable that there appears 
to be but slight relation between the general symptoms and 
the ultimate result, rendering the disease one of great un¬ 
certainty and perplexity, 

The Eruption. —From the seventh to the fourteenth do f 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-FEVERS. 


the characteristic eruption usually begins to show itself 
mostly on the sternum and epigastrium, in the form of rose 
colored dots, which are few in number, round, scarcely 
elevated, and which insensibly fade into the natural hue of 
the surrounding skin. The quantity of rash bears no pro¬ 
portion to the severity of the disease. 

This successive daily eruption, disappearing on pressure 
each spot continuing visible for three or four days only, is 
peculiar to and characteristic of Typhoid fever. The first 
crop of eruption is rarely decisive; but successive crops, oi 
even not more than two or three spots each, remove a \l 
doubt. Sometimes, cases occur in which a single spot has 
not been detected. Occasionally, also, very minute vesicles 
appear, looking like drops of sweat, chiefly on the neck, 
chest and abdomen. 

The Temperature, as indicated by the thermometer, in 
this fever, forms a very good indication of the progress of 
the disease. In the acute specific fevers the elevation of the 
temperature is abrupt , while in this fever it is gradual . 
During the first three or four days almost the only symp¬ 
tom is a gradual rise of temperature, and if by the fourth or 
fifth day the maximum temperature be not 103—5 or 104, 
the disease is probably not Enteric Fever; and, if on the 
first or second day it reaches 104, the disease is some 
other fever, as this point is attained only gradually in En¬ 
teric Fever. Temperature is also an important element in 
the prognosis, as we have great variations in this fever, it 
being low in the morning and reaching its height in the 
evening. The greater these fluctuations at the end of the 
second week, the more favorable and shorter the attack. 
If it falls considerably in the morning although remaining 
high at night, the prognosis is favorable. But if it remains 
continuously high at the end of the second week, we may 
predict a long and severe attack. Probably the first indi* 
cation of improvement in cases of persistently high term 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


187 


perature will in a decline in tlie morning temperature. 
When such a decline occurs, especially if repeated on sub¬ 
sequent days, even though the maximum temperature in 
the evening remains the same, we may be certain the fever 
has begun to abate. True, a sudden fall of temperature 
may result from Diarrhoea or Hemorrhage—probably the 
latter, when it occurs suddenly; but usually other symptoms 
would indicate such an occurrence. Unlike Typhus the 
decline in this disease is usually gradual. 

Dangers: —1. Hemorrhage. —This may occur from the ul¬ 
cerated patches of the ileum during the separation of the 
gland sloughs, and may be either capillary, or from the 
opening of a large vessel. The discharge of blood may be 
so great as to be immediately fatal by swooning, or may be 
remotely so by exhausting the patient, so that he fails to 
rally from it. Sometimes, without any escape of blood 
externally, the patient becomes suddenly blanched and dies 
in a swoon. In such cases a post-mortem examination 
finds the intestines distended with clotted blood. 2. Ex- 
\austion 4 from profuse and persistent diarrhoea. 3. Perforation. 

'—The ulceration may extend until the coats of the bowel 
are perforated, causing fatal Peritonitis: this may happen 
during the second or third week, but more commonly 
during a prolonged and imperfect convalescence. Symp¬ 
toms indicating its occurrence, are: a sudden pain and 
tenderness in the abdomen, with swelling, more or less 
nausea and vomiting, an altered expression of the features, 
and death in one or two days. 4. Congestion. —The lungs 
may become congested, giving rise to Bronchitis, Pleurisy 
with effusion, or Pneumonia; or, latent tubercles may be 
called into fatal activity: in short, there is a tendency to 
congestion in the three great visceral cavities, the head, the 
chest and the abdomen. 5. Relapse. —This may occur from 
inattention to diet, or from too soon abandoning the re¬ 
cumbent posture. 


188 DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—-FEVERS. 

As will be inferred, the disease does not run a uniform 
course, and cases are recorded where a fatal termination 
has occurred without the manifestation of any character¬ 
istic symptom. 

Treatment: —If at all practicable, the case should be 
placed in the hands of a competent medical man. Only in 
his absence should the amateur attempt to treat so serious 
a disease. But the treatment should in all cases com¬ 
mence with the use of No. One, and this should be our 
main dependance throughout the disease. Dissolve twelve 
pellets in six spoonfuls of water, large, if for an adult, and 
small, if for a child, and of this give a spoonful every hour, 
if the fever is quite high, or every two hours during the 
usual course of the disease. At night, when the patient 
sleeps, do not waken him to administer medicine; only, 
when he wakes, give the medicine that may be due, and 
let two hours be the usual interval between doses. 

After the first three or four days, the disease not having 
yielded to the use of No. One, or only having been mod¬ 
erated by it, and especially with increasing veakness, 
brown or dryish tongue, some bloating and enderness of 
the bowels, and loose, brownish stools, prepare No. Four¬ 
teen in the same manner as the No. One, md give these 
two Remedies, in alternation, at intervals of two hours; 
and so continue, (making fresh medicine every day dur¬ 
ing the entire course of the disease), except:—should 
there be excessive or exhausting diarrhea, watery, brown¬ 
ish, frequent stools, substitute No. Six for the No. One, 
and so continue until that condition has been removed; 
and, should symptoms of Bronchial, or Pulmonary Con¬ 
gestion, or Pleurisy, supervene, substitute No. Seven 
for either of the others, and thus give the No. Seven 
and No. One, in alternation, every two hours, until the 
danger has been averted. 

Towards the close, the fever having abated, leaving great 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


189 


weakness of digestion as well as physical and mental de¬ 
bility, the Number Ten may be used with excellent 
advantage, either alone, or in alternation with No. Four¬ 
teen. 

Accessory Measures. —1. The Boom should, if possible, be 
large and well ventilated, allowing the admission of plenty 
of fresh air, and the escape of tainted air; a hearth fire 
assists ventilation. Remove all carpets and bed-hangings 
and unnecessary furniture. A second couch or bed is very 
convenient, and the bed should be removed from the wall, 
so that the patient may be readily changed from one bed 
to the other. Light from the window should be subdued, 
and all noise and unnecessary talk forbidden. 

2. Rest. —The patient should be but little disturbed and 
have complete physical and mental rest during the entire 
course of the disease. Often, unnecessary or prolonged 
effort results in impeding the cicatrization of ulcers, and in 
some instances results in their extension and fatal per¬ 
foration. 

S. Cleanliness.— The body and bed linen, including blan¬ 
kets, should be frequently changed, and all matter dis¬ 
charged from the patient immediately removed. The 
mouth should be frequently washed with a soft, wet towel, 
to remove the sordes, which gather in all severe forms of 
fever. The patient’s body should be frequently as com¬ 
pletely sponged over as possible, with tepid or cold water, 
as may be most agreeable to the patient, and quickly dried 
with a soft towel. If necessary, sponging may be done 
piece-wise to avoid fatigue. It should never be omitted in 
fevers, is grateful to the patient, soothes away restless feel¬ 
ings, and is indispensable to cleanliness; and the water 
acts as a tonic to the relaxed capillaries and also tends to 
prevent bed-sores. If bed-sores have formed, they should 
be protected with Arnica plaster. 

4. Hydropathic Applications. —A wet compress , ma*de by a 


LOO 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—FEVERS 


folded towel, laid over the bowels, is of utility tending to 
ii'minish diarrhoea, cheek the spread of ulceration, and pro¬ 
mote perspiration. If lung complications arise it may be 
applied to the chest, with benefit. 

5. Beverages. —At the commencement of the fever, pure, 
cold water, toast water, gum water, slightly sweetened, 
barley water, lemonade, are all that is necessary. Cold 
water is of supreme importance; it lowers the excessive 
temperature, sustains the rapid waste and is a valuable ad¬ 
junct to the treatment. 

6. Diet and Stimulants. —In a disease, which lasts three 
or four weeks, and sometimes five or six, and in which the 
waste of tissue is great, and when common food cannot be 
taken, it is a matter of first importance, to supply the 
patient with appropriate nourishment, lest he may sink be¬ 
fore the disease has completed its course. The following 
points require attention: Patients often are unable to 
swallow or relish food in consequence of the dry and 
shrivelled state of the tongue. Thence it is necessary, fre¬ 
quently, to moisten the lining membrane of the mouth, 
with lemon-juice and water, or other acceptable fluid, and 
always before food is taken. All the aliment given should 
combine both food and drink, in fluid or semi-fluid form, 
until recovery has fully set in. The digestive functions 
being more or less completely suspended, the nourishment 
given must be that which is most readily assimilated. The 
following are among the best forms of nutriment:— Milk, 
(a most important article in the treatment of all fever 
patients); iced milk; thin arrow-root milk; wine whey, (prepared 
by adding half a pint of good sherry to one pint of boiling 
milk, and straining after coagulation); blanc mange of isin¬ 
glass, or ground rice (not gelatine); yolk of egg, (beaten up 
with a little wine, tea, cocoa or milk); beef-tea, and animal 
broths (slightly thickened with well cooked old rice, vermi¬ 
celli isinglass, or a few crumbs of bread); and in some cases 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


191 


alcoholic drinks. Fruits are generally inadmissabl?. A 
little good wine, with an equal quantity ox water, may h 2 
given every hour or two, as the case may require. Effcr 
vescent wines must be avoided. But the effects of wine oi 
brandy should be carefully watched by the attendant , and only 
given in accord with the demands of the system, the vo¬ 
lume and the form of the pulse being the principal guide. 
Except in small quantities, stimulants are not required by 
children, or by persons, who can take a sufficient amount 1 
of food early in the disease. On the other hand, aged per¬ 
sons, and patients who are greatly prostrated, or with cold 
extremities, and livid surface, almost invariably require al¬ 
coholic stimulants. If stimulants aggravate the symptoms^ 
their enjoyment should be modified or at once discon¬ 
tinued. 

Nourishment should also be given with regularity; and, in 
extreme or long continued cases of prostration, as often as 
every two hours, both day and night. 

Fever patients should also be watched day and night. 
Both their wants and their safety demand it. In their de¬ 
lirium they may get out of bed, or even out of the window, 
and lose their lives from the absence or inattention of the 
nurse. 

Moderation in Convalescence.— Food should only be al¬ 
lowed in great moderation, and never to satiety, until the 
tongue is clean and moist, and the temperature, pulse, and 
skin have become natural. Solid food, or too hearty food 
given too soon, may induce fresh irritation in an imperfectly 
healed ulcer, inducing fatal hemorrhage or perforation. If 
stimulants have been given, they should be gradually with¬ 
drawn, as the nutritious food is substituted. The craving 
appetite can only safely be indulged when convalescence is 
fully established. 

Change of air for patients recovering from Enteric Fever 
cannot be over-estimated. Often the entire system is 


192 


DISEASE AtfD TREATMENT.—EE VERS. 


changed and youth is renewed. Nothing gives so bene* 
ficial a direction to such a change as removal to some suit¬ 
able climate and locality. No man can be considered fit fior 
work , for three or four months after an attack of severe 
Enteric Fever. 

To prevent Contagion.— All discharges from fever patients 
should be removed, on their issue from the body, in vessels, 
containing a concentrated solution of chloride of zinc. All 
tainted bed or body linen should, immediately on its re¬ 
moval, be placed m water, strongly impregnated with the 
same substance. The water-closet should be flooded 
several times a day with the same substance, and some 
chloride of lime, also, placed there. While the fever lasts, 
the water-closets should only be used for the discharges 
from the sick, and should be disinfected as above. 


YELLOW FEVER. 

This very destructive form of fever prevails in hot cli¬ 
mates, during the Summer season, in the large cities and 
towns on the sea coast, or along the large rivers. It is 
severe or pernicious in proportion to the quantity of un¬ 
drained land, marshes, and accumulation of putrid filth or 
refuse matter in its immediate vicinity. The investigations 
carried out by Dr. Walter Reed, Carroll and Lazear, in Cuba, 
following the Spanish American war demonstrated beyond 
question that Yellow Fever was caused by the bite of the 
infected mosquito Stegomyia fasicata, and could not bo 
convened from one person to another by personal contact, 
nor could it be conveyed by any means other than 
through the infected mosquito. 

The attack of Yellow Fever is usually abrupt. In some 
cases there may be precursors—a slight depression, loss cf 
appetite, languor, pain in the head, and chilly sensations 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


1U3 


for a day or two. This is followed by a chill, or rigors, 
generally moderate, soon followed by intense fever, rapid 
pulse, high temperature, headache, backache, pain in the 
limbs, and sometimes vomiting, retention of urine and 
costiveness are also present. The eyes are reddened, irritable 
and watery. Mind usually clear, but sometimes delirious. 

This febrile movement continues from twelve hours to 
three days, and is followed by a remission of the fever or 
abatement of all the marked symptoms, and the patient and 
friends often think the disease is over, but the lull is usu¬ 
ally deceptive. There remains a voracious appetite, indi¬ 
gestion, a yellowish tint in the eyes, and mental depression, 
which are of ominous import. But in mild, 'well-managed 
cases, this may be the beginning of convalescence. 

In grave cases, however, this lull is deceptive, and, after a 
period of a few or even twenty-four hours, ushers in the 
third stage, or that of collapse. 

The pulse falls to its natural standard, or even down to 
forty or thirty per minute, and is weak and easily com¬ 
pressed, and the surface is cool. There is increasing yel¬ 
lowness of the skin and whites of the eyes; burning pain in 
the throat, stomach and bowels; dark colored urine; diarr¬ 
hoea, restlessness; delirium; hiccough, and the much 
dreaded black vomit, (a fluid resembling coffee grounds, or 
soot, or snuff suspended in water, and which is really de¬ 
composed blood), is from time to time thrown up. This mat¬ 
ter is sometimes ejected in quantities and with force; at 
others a mere regurgitation; sometimes acrid, excoriating 
the mouth and gums. The tongue is frequently reddened, 
dry and cracked. In advanced stages blood-boils may 
appear, and hemorrhage from various parts or organs are 
common. The urine is suppressed or albuminous, and 
coma and convulsions may occur, and life is terminated 
by exhaustion or syncope. There are occasionally the so- 
called walking cases , where the patient does not take to the 


[ M DISEASE AND TREATMENT. — FEVERS 

bed at all, but continues in a half-delirious state about his 
business, or moving around, until a few hours before death. 

Treatment. —While the disease is prevailing, take six 
pellets of No. One, morning and afternoon, and six pellets 
of No. Ten, at noon and at bedtime. This should render 
very light any attack which may occur. 

When an attack comes on, the patient should at once 
retire to his room and dissolve twenty pellets of No. One 
in a glass half full of water, of which a large spoonful 
should be given every hour. This should be continued 
without interruption, except the patient sleeps, through 
the entire first, or stage of fever. 

When the remission of fever comes on, making the end 
of the first, and beginning of the second stage, the No. 
Ten should be dissolved, twenty pellets in half a glass of 
svater, of which a large spoonful should be given every 
two hours, alternating with No. One. This treatment, 
the alternation of No. One and No. Ten, at intervals of 
two hours, should be continued through the entire course 
of the disease, or until the fever has all disappeared, and 
there is coldness of the surface, weakness and decided 
prostration, or appearance of black vomit , at which the 
No. Six should be substituted for the No. One. The No. 
Six, should be prepared in the same manner as No. Ten v 
twenty pellets in half a glass of water, of which give a 
large spoonful at intervals of two hours, first a spoonful 
of No. Six, and next time of No. Ten, and so on. The 
only other medicine to be given for the black vomit , beside 
the No. Six, is the Marvel Witch Hazel, of which a 
teaspoonful may be given for this decomposed hem¬ 
orrhage, with great benefit, at the intermediate hour. 
Should the urine become suppressed, or very scanty, a 
dose or two of No. Thirty, six pellets in a spoonful of 
water, will soon relieve. After the vomit has been relieved 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


195 


and convalescence established, the Number Ten may 
be relied upon, given three or four times per day, for re¬ 
storation. 

Accessory Means. —The patient must be screened from 
the mosquito. All persons living in the vicinity should 
take every precaution against being bitten. Drain swampy 
land, disinfect cesspools, etc. Destroy the mosquito. 
During the chill give a hot foot-bath, and, during the heat, 
frequent spongings of the entire body and limbs with tepid 
vinegar and water. The diet, during the first stage, should 
be simply, toast-bread, or crackers soaked in weak black 
tea. In the second stage, rice, milk, and arrow-root may 
be added to the diet; and in the third, or stage of prost¬ 
ration, ice-cream, champagne, beef-tea, or wine-wliey may 
be necessary. The patient should remain in bed, comfor¬ 
tably but not oppressively clothed, during the entire course 
of the disease. 

I do not recommend, in general, the treatment of such 
formidable diseases, as Typhus, Cholera, or Yellow Fever, 
by unprofessional persons. But there are times and epi¬ 
demics when competent medical attendance cannot be 
obtained, and where these simple directions may prove 
of inestimable value in treating and arresting disease and 
saving life. 

MALARIA—INTERMITTENT FEVER.— 
FEVER AND AGUE. 

An endemic infectious disease caused by the introduction 
of a micro-organism into the system from the bite of a 
mosquito. A disease widely prevalent on the Atlantic 
coast south of the New England States, throughout the 
Southern States and in the Mississippi valley. Rarer in 
other parts of the United States, almost unknown in th« 
northwestern states, the lake regions and the valley of tk* 
fit Lawrence. 


196 


HOMEOPATHIC mentor. 


Malaria is generally classified as of the quotidian, tertian, 
and quartan types, depending upon the frequency of the 
paroxysms as they occur daily, every other day or every 
third day. To this may be added the estivo-autumnal and 
pernicious malarial this latter form being largely prevalent 
and confined mostly to the tropical climates of South 
America and Africa. 

The Roman Fever of the Campagna, now almost extinct, 
through drainage and elimination of the infected mosquito 
is of this latter tj^pe. The predominant and characteristic 
symptoms of malaria are chill, high fever, followed by 
copious perspiration, or a hot, cold and sweating stage, 
followed by a period of great relief or of comparative health 
during which the patient feels almost well. The three 
types most common are (1st) the quotidian, in which the 
paroxysms occur every day—an interval of twenty-four 
hours of calm or relief, then a recurrence of the paroxysms. 
(2nd) Tertian, with a paroxysm every other day, an interval 
of forty-eight hours before recurrence. (3rd) The Quartan, 
the paroxysm occurring every third day, an interval of 
seventy-two hours, and again a recurrence. The paroxysms 
may continue for months before relief is secured. Laveran, 
a French army surgeon, in 1880 while stationed in Algiers, 
demonstrated the existence of parasites in the blood of 
malarial patients. His observations w T ere confirmed by 
Sternberg of the United States in 1886. King of Washington 
was one of the first to suggest that the disease was trans¬ 
mitted by the mosquito, but it remained to Manson and Ross 
of England to demonstrate by practical tests in India and 
on the Roman Campagna that individuals dwelling in houses 
effectually screened and otherwise protected from the bites 
of the mosquito may dwell indefinitely in the most deadly 
of malarial districts without contracting the disease. This 
has been most convincingly shown in the good work done 
by Gorgas on the Isthmus of Panama, where malaria is 
practically unknown or at least of very rare occurrence. 

Havana and other places in Cuba may be taken as a 
further example. The parasite of malaria is termed plas- 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-FEVERS. 


197 


modium, of which there are several well marked varieties 
which exist in two distinct phases or stages (a) in man, who 
acts as an intermediate host, and where, during its develop¬ 
ment in the red corpuscles of the blood, it causes the 
symptoms of malaria, (b) In the body of the mosquito 
where it lives and develops. 

The three varieties of the parasite plasmodium correspond 
to the tertian, quartan, and estivo autumnal type of malarial. 
The remaining or quotidian type, is now known to be a 
double infection of a group of the tertian parasites causing 
a daily paroxysm. There may also be a double infection 
of the tertian and quartan or again of the estivo autumnal 
causing a continued fever with remissions in which the chill 
or perspiration may be slight or obscure. Most of our 
mosquitos are of the genera Anopheles and the Culex. Our 
ordinary house mosquitos with the exception of their irritat¬ 
ing bite, are harmless and incapable of developing and. 
conveying the malarial parasite. The Anopheles alone are 
responsible for our infliction of malaria. In this case “the 
female is more deadly than the male”. They alone ingest 
the infected blood. The parasites lodge in the walls of the 
stomach of the female mosquito; there they live and develop, 
and entering into the circulatory system find their way into 
the salivary ducts and glands and are then ready like the 
virus in the fangs of a rattlesnake to be inoculated into the 
next helpless victim the mosquito may bite. Introduced 
into the human system the parasites attack the red cor¬ 
puscles of the blood, there develop and ultimately destroy 
the corpuscles and are liberated into the blood again in 
from 48 to 72 hours, according to the varietyof the parasite, 
whether it be tertian, quartan or estivo autumnal. This 
bursting and destruction of the red corpuscles or sporul- 
ation, as it is termed, corresponds to the chill or cold sweat 
in the patient. The liberating spores attack other red 
corpuscles, again multiply and destroy as before, and so on 
until they lose their virulence or power of doing harm. The 
Anopheles is a country bred mosquito inhabiting low 
.swamny land or stagnant pools- The malarial mosquito is 


198 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


nocturnal in habit, remains dormant or inactive during the 
day and is very active and vicious from sunset till sunrise. 
The belief that haunted the minds of our grandparents in 
the noxious qualities of the night air and that malaria was 
caused by miasms and exhalations from the swamps may be 
relegated to the limbo of forgotten things, along with other 
old wives tales. The Anopheles may be readily distinguished 
from the Culex by its resting position. The body of the 
Culex is almost parallel with the wall or ceiling upon which 
it is resting. In the Anopheles the body is always per¬ 
pendicular or inclined at an angle of 45 degrees to the wall 
or ceiling. The wings of the common Culex or house 
mosquito show no markings beyond the vein markings. In 
the Anopheles the wings are marked with zebra like trans¬ 
verse strij^es. Wherever there is malaria there you will 
find Anopheles mosquitos, although you may find the 
Anopheles in regions where no malaria exists. This is 
simply because the Anopheles of that particular region have 
not become infected. 

Symptoms.— These may set in suddenly, or they may 
appear gradually, until a regular paroxysm occurs. The 
first stage comes on with a feeling of debility, weariness, 
chilliness, and rigors; then follow sensations as of cold 
water trickling down the spine and a shivering of the whole 
body; the teeth chatter, the nails turn blue, and the whole 
frame trembles, often with such violence as to shake the 
patient’s bed. The face becomes pale, the features and 
skin contracted, and the papillae of the skin are rendered 
prominent, giving it the appearance described as goose stem, 
such as may at any time be produced by exposure to cold. 
The countenance acquires an anxious expression, the eyes 
are dull and sunken, the pulse frequent and small, the 
breathing hurried and oppressed, the tongue white, and the 
urine scanty and passed frequently. After a time, varying 
from half an hour to three or four hours, the second or hot 
stage comes on with flushings, until the entire body be¬ 
comes hot, with extreme thirst, full bounding pulse, 
throbbing headache, and restlessness, the urine being still 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-FEVERS. 


199 


scanty, but liigli-colored. At length, after two, three, and 
even six or twelve hours, the third or perspiring stage suc¬ 
ceeds, and the patient feels much relieved. Thirst dimin¬ 
ishes, the pulse declines in frequency, and the appetite 
returns; at the same time there is a red deposit of urates in 
the urine. The perspiration first breaks out on the fore¬ 
head and chest, and gradually extends over the entire sur¬ 
face; sometimes it is only slight, but at other times it is 
very copious, saturating the patient’s linen and bed-clotlies. 
A paroxysm usually lasts about six hours, allowing two 
hours for each stage. The period between the paroxysms, 
is called the intermission; but, by an interval , is meant the 
whole period or cycle between the beginning of one 
paroxysm and the beginning of the next. 

Effects. —From the recurrence of internal congestions in 
each cold stage, the functions of the liver, bowels, and some¬ 
times the kidneys, are disordered; the patient becomes 
sallow, his limbs waste, the abdomen is distended, and the 
bowels are constipated. The spleen is especially liable to 
be enlarged. An enlarged spleen is popularly called ague- 
cake. “The heat-generating power of all victims to malaria 
is impaired; hence they suffer from atmospheric changes, 
of which healthy men take no note” {Maclean). 

PREVENTIVE. —TREATMENT. 

As a preventive: Persons residing in malarial districts, oi 
where fever and ague is prevalent, or those traveling in such, 
regions, along rivers, lowlands, plains or marshes may be 
protected from this disease by simply taking six pellets of 
No. Sixteen, three times a day. If there are symptoms 
of its approach, such as depression, headache, bad taste in 
the mouth, chilliness and pain in the limbs; take six pills 
four times per day and live for some days on very light, 
easily digested food, avoiding labor, over-work or fatigue. 

It cannot be too strongly expressed that the bite of a 
mosquito alone conveys the disease. Therefore all pools and 
stagnant water must be drained as far as possible. A coating 
of crude oil or petroleum to be applied to all standing water. 


200 


HOMEOPATHIC mentor. 


All doors and windows of all dwelling houses must be 
screened, pyrethrum powder or camphor burned in the 
rooms is effectual in ridding the house of mosquitos. 
Annointing the hands and face with oil of pennyroyal, 
camphor water or a weak solution of carbolic acid is a 
preventive against being bitten. Humphreys’ Marvel Witch 
Hazel should be used to bathe the parts already bitten. 

Treatment.— For chills which return every day; take, 
three hours before the chill is to come on and every hour 
until the chill, six pellets of No. Sixteen, permitting them 
to dissolve in the mouth; then during the chill and heat, 
take, every fifteen minutes, six pellets of No. One, dissolved 
in a teaspoonful of water. Then, after the chill and heat 
and sweat have subsided, go on with No. Sixteen, of 
which take six pellets, every hour, until the next chill 
comes on, and then proceed as before. 

For chills which return every other day: take six pellets 
of No. Sixteen, every hour before the paroxysm comes on, 
also the No. One during the chill and heat and sweat, and 
six more pellets of No. Sixteen, after it has passed off. 
Then during the well day, take three Tonic Tablets, every 
four hours. In all other cases, take six pellets before each 
meal and at bed time. In cases where the digestion is im¬ 
paired and liver obstructed, the use of No. Twenty-four 
and No. Sixteen, in alternation every two hours, is promptly 
efficient in arresting the chills and the disease. After the 
chills have subsided, take three Tonic Tablets, four times 
per day, for four weeks, to prevent a return of the disease, 
and avoid exposure, heavy, indigestible food, or severe 
labor. For children give one-half as much medicine as 
for adults. 

REMITTENT FEVER OR AUTUMNAL MALARIA. 

This type of fever usually occurs late in summer or in 
the autumn. It is caused by the presence in the blood of 
the estivo-autumnal parasite. 

It is possible the different varieties of this malarial 
parasite may give rise to the difference in form this fever 


Disease and treatment.—-FEVERS. 


201 


often assumes. The symptoms are very irregular, and oi 
all the degrees of severity. It may be intermittent, with 
paroxysms occurring every 24 or 48 hours, ushered in with a 
decided chill. More often the rise in temperature is more 
gradual, reaching 104° or 105°, or continuous, with slight 
remissions or fall of temperature, for a period of from a 
week to ten days or longer. There may be slight or no 
perspiration with a furred tongue and often with delirium 
and many symptoms simulating typhoid fever. It may be 
easily and often is mistaken for this latter disease. The 
bacilli of typhoid at the same time may exist in the body of 
the patient, giving rise to a true typho-malarial fever. 
Jaundice may be a prominent symptom, forming the so 
called bilious remittent 

Treatment. —See pages 199-200. 

PERNICIOUS MALARIAL FEVER. 

In tropical countries is apt to begin suddenly with 
intense cerebral disturbance followed by coma, and too 
often death. The parasite of malaria may remain in the 
system for many years with suppressed symptoms of 
malaria. This condition of malarial cachexia is commonly 
known as “dumb ague”, presenting the symptoms of ague 
with impaired digestion, discoloration of the skin and 
enlarged spleen or “ague cake” which may be readily felt over 
the left side upon pressure. Enlargement of the liver or 
kidneys with general debility are commonly found in 
connection with this condition. 

Treatment.— See pages 199-200. 

FEVERS OF CHILDREN. 

Fevers among children of from one to ten years of age 
are quite common, and are often brought on by over fa¬ 
tigue; playing in the heat of the sun; exposure in light thin 
dress, or bare arms or legs, to cold, chilly winds; improper 
food, sweetmeats; or the irritation of worms, provoked by 
Such food: or the irritation of teething 


202 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


Such fevers are manifested by heat of the hands and sur¬ 
face, red face, or one cheek red and the other pale, swelling 
and throbbing of the veins of the neck, hot head, quick pulse, 
rapid breathing, fretfulness, and often inclination to sleep. 

Treatment.— The No. One is only required. Dissolve 
twelve pellets in as many small spoonfuls of water, and of 
this give every half-hour at first, and then every hour, a 
spoonful, until the disease is subdued. Should the fever 
have been occasioned by indigestible substances—raisins, 
oranges or sweetmeats—and the bowels be constipated, give 
an injection of tepid water, and repeat it if necessary. And 
should there be twitchings and startings on going to sleep, 
thus indicating convulsions, give two pellets of the No. 
Thirty-three, and repeat it again after two 01 three hour? 
if necessary. Let the patients drink moderately of water, 
and often sponge off the body with tepid water. Keep 
them on very low diet, and quiet, until relieved. This i 3 
the proper treatment for all forms of fevers, and even 
inflammation, in children. 

SCAKLET FEVER;SCARLATINA. 

This is usually considered a very formidable disease, but 
under the mild and efficient system of Homeopathic treat¬ 
ment, it has lost much of its terror. True, sometimes an 
epidemic of unusual violence may pass over the country, 
which carries off quite a proportion of little sufferers, but 
in general, under Dr. Humphreys’ benign system, it p>asses 
as a comparatively mild and harmless disease. 

There are some three varieties, marking, in fact, degrees 
in the severity of the disease, and the degree of danger 
likely to attend it. 

In the simple form, it commences with peevishness, 
chilliness, headache, nausea and vomiting, after which the 
eruption appears, first at the face and upper extremities 
and subsequently over the body; either diffused or in 
patches, assuming a bright scarlet color. The breath is 
offensive, tongue coated, quick pulse, high fever and so* 6' 
ness of the throat. 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-FEVERS. 


203 


The anginose variety has more violent symptoms; com¬ 
mences with vomiting, which may continue for hours; high 
fever, quick pulse; eruption somewhat paler and in patches 
or diffused; the tonsils become inflamed and swelled, and 
ulcerate; tongue dirty-white or red; great prostration; after 
some days swelling of the glands of the cheek and beneath 
the ear; the fever is very high, and surface hot and dry, 
and often discharge of hot excoriating mucus from the nose. 

In the malignant form, the most violent symptoms are 
manifested about the head, and it sometimes terminates in 
fatal congestion to the head before the eruption has fully 
made its appearance; in milder cases there is constant vom¬ 
iting, violent pain in the head, stupor with half-closed 
eyes, pale imperfect eruption in spots, or of brick-dust 
color; and, after these, excoriating discharge from the nose. 

In the milder forms the eruption should begin to grow 
pale and disappear in three or four days, and the fever and 
sore throat abate, and the child be well in a week. But the 
other varieties are uncertain, and may require ten or four¬ 
teen days, or even longer. 

You may recognize the scarlet fever from other diseases 
by the vomiting, the sore throat, the high fever, and the 
subsequent eruption. 

Treatment. —As a preventive, when scarlet fever prevails 
in the neighborhood, give the children each morning and 
night two pellets of No. One. 

So soon as the vomiting or fever has declared itself, com¬ 
mence with the No. One, dissolved in water, twelve pellets 
in as many teaspoonfuls of water, of which give a spoonful 
every hour. Continue this from day to day, (preparing 
new medicine daily), except when the patient is quietly 
sleeping at the time for giving the medicine, then give it 
after the patient awakes. 

For the vomiting, if severe or frequent, interpose two 
pellets of No. Six, and repeat it two or three times in alter¬ 
nation with No. One, until the vomiting is relieved. 

After two or three da} r s it will be best to alternate No. 
Fourteen, with No. One, prepared in like manner, and 


204 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


give tlie two medicines at intervals of two hours, and so 
continue. 

Should there occur swellings under the ear or jaw, if the 
fever has gone, give the No. Twenty-three in alternation 
with No. Fourteen. If discharges from the ear or earache, 
give No. Twenty-two instead. If dropsical swellings, 
which sometimes occur in consequence of taking cold. No. 
Twenty-five, four pellets, four times per day, will soon 
relieve. 

MEASLES. 

Measles prevail usually towards spring, and is generally 
a mild, easily-managed disease. It commences with symp¬ 
toms of bad cold, sneezing, lachrymation, and slight red¬ 
ness of the eyes, and soon a hoarse, looxe cough, which is 
charactei istic of the disease. The rash appears first on the 
face in minute pimples in clusters, with a reddish blush, 
deepening and increasing as it comes out—the first day 
upon the face and neck, next upon the body, and the third 
day extending to the lower extremities, by which time it 
grows fainter upon the face, and disappears in the same 
manner. There is fever, loose cough, hoarseness, etc. 

Treatment. —Give the No. One, twelve pellets in as 
many spoonfuls of water, of which give a spoonful every two 
hours, and continue this treatment through the entire 
course of the disease, unless when sleeping quietly. If the 
measles do not come out well, do not be alarmed about that; 
keep the patient warm, give some warm tea or nourishing 
soup, allot foot-bath, but nothing else; the measles will come 
out sufficiently. If the cough is troublesome, alternate the 
No. Seven with No. One. If very hoarse, give a few doses 
of the No. Thirteen. If the eyes are at all red, inflamed, 
intolerant of light, No. Eighteen will be found to act like a 
charm, given in alternation with No. One, and for any 
weakness of sight remaining or in consequence of measles, 
the No. Eighteen may be relied upon, giving three pellets 
four times per day. Care should be taken during the 
measles, to prevent taking cold, as serious diseases of the 
lungs may arise as a consequence. 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—FEVERS. 


205 


SMALL-POX; (Varioloid). 

SmaL-pox and its modified form, termed varioloid, is a 
strictly infectious disease, being always communicated by 
contagion from those who have it. It is important to rec¬ 
ognize it at the earliest hour possible, in order to adopt a 
proper treatment as well as to prevent others from expo¬ 
sure. The following will aid us in establishing the diag¬ 
nosis:—The disease comes on in from nine to fourteen 
days after exposure. It begins with chilliness, some fever, 
a peculiar swimming or dizziness of the head, and headache; 
the face is flushed, and often bloated; pain in the back, often 
quite severe and constant; derangement of the stomach, 
often nausea and vomiting; aching in the bones and sore¬ 
ness of tlie flesh; and among children and in violent cases, 
it is ushered in by violent convulsions. 

After the symptoms above have continued three days, 
the eruption begins to come out, showing itself first on the 
forehead and face in the form of minute red points, which 
increase in size from day to day, while others make their 
appearance on the face and by degrees over the hands, 
arms and other portions of the body, but always more 
numerous on the forehead and face. If the face is red and 
swelled, it will be likely to assume the confluent form, the 
pustules all running together and forming a complete crust. 
But if the face is but little swelled or pale, the pock coming 
out scattered only here and there, the disease will assume 
the discreet form, with only a few pustules that fill; the 
fever, vertigo, headache and pains pretty much disappearing 
as the pock comes out and the disease running a mild 
course. After four days of development, during which the 
pustules attain their growth, the suppurative stage com¬ 
mences, during which the pock become filled with a yel¬ 
lowish fluid, which gradually changes to a turbid appear¬ 
ance, each pock surrounded by a red circle with a dark 
indentation at the top. About the tenth or eleventh day 
from the commencement, and towards the close of this 
stage, there is for two or three days considerable fever and 
flow of saliva; after this has passed, the pustules gradually 


206 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


grow brownish, dry up and fall off, leaving cicatrices or 
marks of a deep red color, which are quite a period in 
assuming the natural color of the skin. 

Treatment. —This disease is more loathsome than 
dangerous; and under Homeopathic treatment, properly 
treated and understood, generally passes off as a mild, 
though unpleasant visitation. Two points are of especial 
consideration, especially during the earlier stages of the 
disease, namely: To keep the patient cool, with at all 
times plenty of fresh air. As soon as the nature of the dis¬ 
ease is understood, keep the room entirely cool , give no warm 
teas or heating drinks , and thus prevent the formation of 
numerous pock, the less of which the better. Children 
attacked with convulsions should be taken at once into 
the open air or a room without fire for relief. 

All through the disease the greatest possible cleanliness 
should be observed, with frequent change of linen. When 
the pustules begin to form, the room should be darkened, 
which is a partial security against the pitting from the 
disease. Give only cold water, cold toast-water or cold 
black tea for drink. Gruel of meal, oat-meal, barley, rice or 
farina, all taken cold, is the best nourishment. After the 
disease has spent its force, baked apples, boiled rice, 
custard, toast, etc., may be allowed. 

As medicines, from the first symptoms, give the No. One, 
twelve pellets in six spoonfuls of water, of which give a 
spoonful every hour during the entire presence of fever. 
After the fever has measurably abated, prepare the No. 
Fourteen in like manner with No. One, and give the 
two alternately at two hours intervals, until the drying 
off of the crusts. 

P. S.—If the Sarracenia Purpurea (popularly known 
by the names of Indian Cap , Pitcher-Plant, - Side-Saddle 
Flower) can be procured, give it from the first and all 
through the disease; ten drops of the tincture in a glass 
half-full of water, which give in spoonful doses alternately 
with the No. One. I have known it to arrest the disease 
when given early, and to materially shorten its course and 
prevent the pitting. 

The Prevention of Small-Pox, by Vaccination. —There is 
unquestionably some risk in vaccination, as formerly prac- 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—FEVERS. 201 

fciced, with lymph taken from the human subject. Un 
healthy matter may thus be introduced, carrying disease 
with it, and thus life-long evils be inflicted. But these 
results, on the whole, have not been common; and have 
generally proven to be the careless abuse of a system, 
rather than its legitimate use. Undoubtedly, all the 
danger to be apprehended from the use of ordinary 
humanized lymph, as formerly practiced, is entirely ob¬ 
viated by the modern use of bovine lymph,— i. e., the vaccine- 
matter taken directly from the calf. Its use is so greatly 
extending among the profession within a few years past, 
and it is so easily procurable, that it may be considered 
as in every way preferable to lymph taken from the 
human system. Matter if taken from the human sub¬ 
ject should be selected with care, from an unmistakably 
healthy child, one who has no scrofulous or syphilitic taint 
in its system, and has no eruption of any kind upon the 
skin or scalp. The matter taken should be introduced just 
beneath the skin of the outside of the upper third of the 
left arm, inserted not so deep as to make it bleed, and yet 
deep enough to show a slight discoloration. It will 
run a mild course, and produce a pustule in ten or four¬ 
teen days, that in drying, will give a tamarind-stone-like 
crust, and leave a deep and peculiar cicatrix which will 
show during a life time. If, during the course of the 
vaccination, any fever should manifest itself, give the 
Number One, and if any eruption of the surface, 
give Number Fourteen, night and morning, until it 
disappears. 

After many years of observation, and balancing all the 
dangers and inconveniences of vaccination and non-vacci¬ 
nation, my conclusion is, that every child should be vacci¬ 
nated; and adults may be properly re-vaccinated when in 
danger of exposure to immediate contagion. This is the 
shortest, safest and best method. 


208 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOS. 


CHICKEN-POX.—( Varicella). 

This disease has sometimes been confounded with small¬ 
pox or varioloid. But it may be known by the vesicles 
appearing mostly on the covered parts of the body or scalp, 
while in small-pox, they are mostly in the face; by the ve¬ 
sicles being smooth and transparent, filled with water and 
growing rapidly, attaining the size of a pea in a day; while 
in small-pox they are pustules, firm and hard, and begin to 
fill only after three or four days of growth. With chicken- 
pox there is some fever; the thin watery vesicles come out 
often in clusters, commencing with a thin pellicle which 
bursts or dries up, forming a small puckered scab and 
rarely leaving a pit or depression. 

The whole disease is mild, and usually runs its course in 
four or five days, unattended with danger. 

Treatment. — Give the No. One, ten pellets dissolved 
in as many spoonfuls of water, of which give a spoonful 
every one or two hours during the course of the disease. 
If a new crop of vesicles comes out afterwards, give six 
pellets of the No. Fourteen, morning and night. 

HUMPS.— {Parotides). 

This disease consists of a swelling of the salivary glands, 
and is usually not dangerous unless the patient is exposed 
to cold during the progress of the disease, when it is liable 
to make a transition (metastasis) to some other organ. It 
is first noticed as a swelling of the parotid gland in front 
of, and beneath the ear, first commencing on one side and 
then extending to the other, rarely both at once; sometimes 
the whole neck is involved and the swelling extends beneath 
the jaw. It is attended with fever, and pain when chewing , 
especially firm or hard food, and at times pain in swal¬ 
lowing. Sometimes (on the fifth or seventh day), the swelling 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—HOOPING COUGH. 


209 


leaves the neck and attacks the breasts or testicles, which 
become red, swollen and painful. At times, in sensitive 
children with prominent heads, it has been known to fall 
upon the brain, producing delirium or other dangerous 
symptoms. 

Treatment. —Keep the child in a comfortable warm 
room, prevent exposure, make no applications except a 
light cloth around the neck and give no stimulants. Give 
the No. One, ten pellets dissolved in as many spoonfuls 
of water, of which give one every hour. After the fever 
has abated, prepare the No. Twenty-two in like manner, 
and give alternately with the No. One, at intervals of 
two hours, until the disease has disappeared. Should the 
disease fall upon the testicle, the No. Thirty will soon 
relieve, given every two or three hours. For fever, 
delirium or congestion to the head, the No. One is 
perfectly appropriate, and will soon relieve. 

CEREBRO-SPINAL MENINGITIS .—{Spotted Fever). 

This is an epidemic and infectious disease, occurring 
generally in winter and spring, especially where there is 
much moisture and great variations of temperature. Its 
disease-germ thrives best in circumstances of insufficient 
nourishment, damp, overcrowded, badly drained and ven¬ 
tilated houses with unclean ground floors; though it is 
by no means uncommon among the better classes of 
community. No age is exempt from it, but childhood 
is oftenest and most severely attacked. It begins 
suddenly with shivering, followed by fever; sickness, 
and vomiting; intense headache, pains in neck, trunk 
and limbs, and great prostration and restlessness. The 
fever increases, and is irregular, varying from 100.4° 
to 104° F.; breathing more rapid; pulse also irregular 


210 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


and not corresponding with, height of the temperature, and 
varying 30 or 40 beats within a few hours; the patient has 
a look of great distress; the tongue is dry and cracked, or 
else moist and heavily coated; when there is an eruption it 
is lighter in color, comes on sooner and fades sooner than 
that of typhus, and is succeeded by peeling of the skin. 
These spots are of varied size, of a purplish, or “black and 
blue” color, which do not fade under pressure; and usually 
commence upon the upper eyelids, extending gradually to 
other parts of the body. The sensibility of the body is intense , 
every touch causing agony. The symptoms increase in vio¬ 
lence up to the third day, when the swallowing and breath¬ 
ing become affected; the head is dragged back upon the neck; 
delirium, stupor, and death occurring from the fifth to the 
eighth day; some cases even, becoming fatal in from 12 to 
30 hours. 

Its diagnosis is difficult in isolated cases, or when occur- 
ing in connection with some other disease, but the sudden¬ 
ness of attack; the extreme irregularity of pulse and tempera¬ 
ture; its peculiar eruption; the pain in the front and back of 
head, the stiffness of neck, and extreme tenderness of spine , 
and to touch generally, should lead to a suspicion of its 
nature. Its dangerous symptoms are a quick, feeble, or 
very slow pulse; difficult breathing; delirium; persistent 
vomiting; convulsions. Convalescence must be closely 
watched, for among its after-affects , are (within two to four 
weeks) paralysis, most often of the palate, causing nasal 
voice, and fluids enter the nose at the back of the throat, 
causing difficult swallowing; and paralysis of the eye, 
causing squinting; or of the heart, causing death by fainting. 

Treatment. —From the first, the Number One, twelve 
pellets in six teaspoonsful of water, a teaspoonful at a dose 
every hour. Sponging with warm water; nourishing diet, 
small quantities at a time; great quiet, a darkened room, 
etc Consult a good homeopathic physician promptly. 


DISEASES OP THE SKIN. 


The larger proportion of skin diseases are of parasitic 
or microbic origin. The commoner forms of eruptions on 
the skin arise from indigestion or some other constitutional 
disturbance and are as a rule of minor importance except 
as to appearance and annoyance to the patient. There are 
various forms of rash or eruptions characterizing measles, 
scarlet fever, chicken pox, small pox, syphilis and other 
grave morbid conditions. These latter do not properly 
come under the head of skin diseases any more than do 
boils and carbuncles. 

All cases of skin diseases call for the utmost cleanliness, 
both external and internal, the proper local applications, 
and the appropriate internal remedy, together with care 
against spreading the contagion or infection to others 
when it is capable of transmission. 


ERYSIPELAS.— (Rose). 

An infectious disease caused by the micro-organism 
“Streptococcus Erysipellatus” occurring often as endemic 
or epidemic, usually prevalent in the spring of the year 
or damp weather but confined to no time of the year. It 


212 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


more frequently follows wounds, injuries or surgical opera 
tions. Women during confinement and childbirth, are 
especially liable. Squalor, unsanitary conditions and sur¬ 
roundings, general lack of cleanliness, favor its development. 

Though sometimes trivial, is oftentimes a very serious 
disease. It is known by a spreading inflammatory red¬ 
ness of the skin, with considerable puffy swelling, tender¬ 
ness, burning, painful tingling, and tension. The color 
varies from a faint-red to a dark-red or purplish color, 
becoming white under pressure, but resuming its former 
color on the removal of the pressure. An attack is usually 
ushered in with shivering, languor, headache, nausea, 
bilious vomiting, and the ordinary symptoms of Inflam¬ 
matory fever, accompanied or followed by inflammation of 
the part affected. When Erysipelas attacks the face, it 
nearly always commences at the side of the nose near the 
angle of the eye. 

Erysipelas may prove fatal by exhaustion; by obstruction 
to the air-passages (when the inflammation extends to the 
tissues of the wind-pipe); and by coma (morbid drowsiness), 
from effusion of fluid within the cranium, arising from 
extension of inflammation to the membranes of the brain. 

Phlegmonous Erysipelas is marked by a deeper redness, 
or it may be redness of a dusky or purple hue, which is 
scarcely, if at all, removed by pressure; the pain is burning 
and throbbing; the swelling is greater, and the surface 
irregular; and there is often deep-pitting upon pressure. 
Sometimes the swelling and disfigurement are so great 
that the features are quite obliterated, and the parts lose 
all resemblance to anything human. Delirium often 
occurs irrespective of an involvement of the membranes 
of the brain. 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-DISEASES OP THE SKIN. 213 

The simple or cutaneous variety is attended with much 
less danger than the phlegmonous: or than that caused by 
a wound. It is also more serious when it occurs in an 
epidemic or endemic form. Mere extent of inflam¬ 
mation is not of so much importance as a high degree of 
blood-poisoning, combined with a rapid, weak pulse, a dry, 
brown tongue, low muttering Delirium, and great prostra¬ 
tion. When the disease attacks the head, unless it is con¬ 
trolled by skilful treatment, the membranes of the brain 
are in danger of being implicated. The disease in any of 
its forms is most serious at either of the extremes of life. 
Lastly, the habits and health of the patient, prior to the 
attack, greatly influence the result. It is especially fatal to 
drunkards and in broken-down constitutions. 

Diet.— Pure water, gum-water, or barley-water, with 
lemon-juice, to allay the thirst. Severe and tedious cases 
require essence of beef, or Extract of Meat , and even wine 
or brandy. Subsequently, a change of air, regular habits, 
and nourishing diet, essential in the after-treatment of all 
acute diseases, are necessary after severe Erysipelas. 

Treatment.— From the first, the No. Fourteen is 
the proper remedy, not only for light and trivial cases, 
but for those of the gravest character. Dissolve twelve 
pellets in sir large spoonfuls of water, of which give to 
children a small, and to adults a large spoonful, every two 
hours, and continue this treatment without interruption 
during the waking hours. In acute erysipelas, or when 
there is fever, or in erysipelas of the face, or when there is 
tendency to assume a severe or phlegmonous form, prepare 
also the No. One, in the same manner as No. Fourteen, 
and give the two in alternation, at intervals of one hour, 
and so continue the use of No. One until the fever, heat, 
and swelling is allayed, then give No. Fourteen, a dose 
once in two or three hours. 


214 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


Local Measures. —In mild forms of the disease, cold 
compresses of Humphreys* Witch Hazel should be applied. 
In severe cases apply collodion or ichthyol. Scorched 
flour sometimes allays the itching, and absorbs any fluids 
that may exude from the affected part. If there is much 
oedema, (dropsical swelling) of a limb, moderate pressure 
should be maintained by the application of well-adjusted 
bandages. If matter forms, incisions are generally necessary 
to afford openings for its discharge; poultices are then 
to be applied, and afterwards bandages, to prevent the 
lodgment of matter. The patient should live on very light 
vegetable or farinaceous diet; no meat or meat soups until 
full convalescence. 

Erysipelas of the legs often appears in a very torpid 
form, as a darkish red or mottled patch on the leg, without 
fever or much heat or irritation of the part, and aside from 
the discoloration, the patient would scarcely know of its 
existence. In these cases, give the Number Four¬ 
teen, six pellets four times per day, dry or dissolved in 
water, living on very light, easily digested food; and rest 
the limb as much as possible, and the disease will dis¬ 
appear. 


HEKPES.—( Shingles — Tetter). 

Herpes consists of clusters of vesicles or minute blisters 
upon inflamed patches of variable size. The eruption runs 
a definite course, rarely lasts more than three or four days, 
(except in the form known as “Shingles”) is not severe, and 
leaves no scar; it is frequently seen upon the lip as a “cold 
sore.’* 

“Shingles,” (Herpes Zoster or Zona) is an acute form of 
Herpes, lasting from fourteen to twenty days; and generally 
affects the trunk, chiefly on the right side; but occasionally 
the face, shoulder, abdomen, or upper part of the thigh 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-DISEASES OF THE SKIN. 


215 


It follows the course of one or more of the cutaneous 
nerves, generally stopping short in the middle, though it 
may extend across to the other side, and has the appearance 
of a line of patches, like a belt, half round the body. It is 
most common in the young, particularly during change of 
weather, and is often proceded by neuralgic pains, the 
eruption following in the same locality. In some rare 
cases, ulceration may supervene; there may be much pain, 
smarting, or burning; and the scars may remain for some 
time It is now well established that it depends upon 
disease of the trophical fibres of the motory and sensory 
nerves supplying the part. Zona is much dreaded, and 
uninstructed nurses foolishly state that if the patches ex¬ 
tend round the body, death is certain to result. There is, 
however, no danger, unless the patient is very old and feeble. 

General Symptoms. —In addition to what is stated above, 
there is often feverishness, headache, shivering—and, per¬ 
haps, neuralgic pain in the side, which may be very acute. 
The disease is mostly accompanied by sensations of heat, 
tension, and burning, felt even before the appearance of the 
eruption, and is followed by weakness and depression. 
When the disease occurs in the aged, or in persons of 
feeble constitution, there is much debility, and ulceration 
may arise, further debiliating the patient. 

Cause. —Irritation of the nerves —as when Catarrh affects 
the nose or lips. 

Treatment.— Give the No. Fourteen, six pellets every 
three hours, and if there is fever, alternate the No. One 
with it, as an intermediate remedy, with light vegetable or 
farinaceous diet, rest, and avoid heat and exposure. Apply 
collodion or ichthyol (10.%) to the rash. 

URTICARIA.— (Hives — Nettle-rash). 

This affection mostly attacks children, though some 
adults have it in a diffused form with much severity. 


216 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


It generally appears as a feverless eruption, coming out 
in spots much like the sting of a bee or mosquito, or tho 
sting of nettles, a pale, or red, or whitish eminence, some¬ 
what hard, from half an inch to an inch in diameter, often 
clustered together; these spots are attended with heat, 
itching and burning, causing great annoyance. They dis- 
appear after some hours, and reappear again in other loca¬ 
tions, being more likely to appear in cool, than in warm 
temperature. In adults, it sometimes appears as a deep 
scarlet rash, attended with heat, itching and swelling, and 
covering the entire person. It is most common in spring 
and early summer; is usually developed by changes of tem¬ 
perature; over-eating; certain kinds of food, such as bitter 
almonds, cucumbers, mushrooms, oatmeal, fish or shell fish; 
and in children is almost always connected with some de¬ 
rangement of the digestion; also mental depression, anxiety, 
the wearing of flannel and anything that irritates the skin. 
It is apt to reappear from time to time. 

Treatment.— Give the No. Fourteen, six pellets morn¬ 
ing, noon and night. This will be sufficient in ordinary 
cases. But if there is considerable of it on the person, 
arms or limbs, or fever, and the itching is annoying, 
dissolve twelve pellets of No. One, in six spoonfuls of 
water, of which give one spoonful every hour until 
relieved. Then give No. Fourteen, four times per day. 

In chronic cases and to eradicate the disease from the 
system, and when the digestion is at fault, give six pellets 
of No. Fourteen, morning and noon, and six pellets of 
No. Ten, at night. 


TINE A.— {Ring-worm). 

This is an affection of the hairs, of the skin, scalp, chin, 
or other parts of the body, due to the growth of a fine white 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-DISEASES OF THE SKIN. 217 


powdery fungus which grows in the interior of the hair- 
roots. The hairs swell, become paler and brittle, and tend 
to crack across, or break off close to the head; and the re¬ 
sulting inflammation of the hair bulbs, while killing the 
fungus, also leaves permanent baldness. 

This disease usually commences in a limited spot and 
thence spreads out in a circular form; and, as the centre 
regains its natural appearance, and the borders extend, it 
forms a ring—hence the name. At times rings form within 
each other, in broken or imperfect forms, and extend in 
various directions. The ring is occupied by small vesicles, 
which after some days break and leave a rough, reddish 
surface, with a rose-colored base. The duration of the 
disease is uncertain. 

This disease appears in different forms, is generally of a 
vegetable parasitic origin, and is always contagious, being 
readily communicated from one child to another, by means 
of the comb, brush, towel or even by contact of the diseased 
part. There are several forms, the principal of which are: 

Tinea tonsurans (Tinea capitis ), the common scurfy Ring¬ 
worm of the scalp, is generally seen only in children, is con¬ 
tagious, but not necessarily associated with impaired health, 
and most common in lymphatic persons. It consists of 
circular patches varying from half an inch to several inches 
in diameter, the hairs of which look dry, withered, and as 
if nibbled off at a short distance from the scalp. The para¬ 
site is visible in a good light, appearing like powdered 
sulphur when Chloroform has been applied. 

Tinea decalvans (Porrigo decalvans) consists of smooth, 
circular patches of perfect baldness , quite pale, of variable size 
—half an inch to two inches or more in diameter, and of 
which there may be several: the disease is sometimes seen 
in young persons, chiefly in girls, but is most common in 
adults. 

Tinea sycosis (Barber’s Itch), is transmissible by contagion 


Homeopathic meni'oE. 


m 

from the use of a razor previously employed in shaving an 
affected person. This method of transmission has been 
often noticed, and we call attention to it to suggest the 
preventive means—viz., the immersion of the razor in hot 
water, and wiping it before use. 

Symptoms. —It is a disease of adult life, and commence* 
insidiously, a red itchy patch being first noticed, which, 
after rubbing or scratching, and the lapse of a little time, 
becomes much more troublesome, as the follicles enlarge 
and pustulate; there is considerable sensation of burning, 
and shaving is very painful. Successive crops of pustules 
appear, often grouped together, the fluid exuded becoming 
dry, and forming into crusts. The hairs become dull, 
brittle, and easily removed; and much discomfort, and 
sometimes disfigurement, is the result. The disease is very 
apt to become chronic, recurring at certain seasons; and 
is often very obstinate. 

Tinea circinnata, is the form which attacks the body. 

Tinea versicolor commences as small reddened points, 
with itching, which is increased by warmth: slightly ele¬ 
vated, dry, rough patches of a fawn-color arise, somewhat 
scaly at the edge, and from which branny scales can be 
rubbed off; they occur on the chest, abdomen, and arms; 
vary in size from that of a three-penny-piece to that of the 
palm of the hand, and are mucn irritated by flannel. It is 
sometimes called variegated Dandriff “ or Liver-spots . 

Treatment .—The Number Fourteen is the appro¬ 
priate remedy. Give six pellets three or four times per 
day, either dry or in water, and paint with iodine or 
ichthyol (10%). 

TINEA FAYOSA .—(Porngo favosa ). 

This is the crusted or honey-comb Ringworm . It com¬ 
mences when the patient is about seven years of age, and 
is characterised by the presence of small straw- or sulphur- 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-DISEASES OF THE SKIN. 219 


colored cupped crusts, which coalesce and give rise to a 
honey-comb appearance, or remain separate. It is conta¬ 
gious. 

It is one of the most obstinate of eruptions, and very 
serious consequences inevitably result from repelling it 
from the surface, by means of ointments, or other external 
applications. It usually commences as a cluster of minute 
vesicles or pimples, in colored, irregular, circular patches, 
on which appear yellow points or patches, which contain a 
yellowish-white, thick, viscid fluid, of an offensive odor. 
This discharge is corrosive and irritates the surface, causing 
the eruption to extend. The hair becomes glued up and 
matted, and thick hard elevated crusts are formed of varied 
shape and appearance. This form of tenia is most liable 
to commence at the back of the head, towards the nape of 
the neck, and swelling and enlargement of the glands of the 
neck are not unusual. 

Treatment. —The less moisture, water, soap-suds, etc., is 
applied to the scalp the better. Water and soap, while 
they soften and cleanse the part, seem to convey the in¬ 
fection to the healthy portion of the scalp, while the effect 
upon the diseased point is not very beneficial. Hence, 
keep the head as clean as possible, and use as little water 
or soap as possible, shingle off the hair over the diseased 
part, or the entire head at once, the sooner the better. 

Give the No. Fourteen, six pellets for an adult or three 
for children, dissolved in a spoonful of water, four times 
per day, and apply to the affected part every second day a 
portion of the Witch Hazel Ointment (Comp.) with the end 
of the finger, or with a fine, soft sponge. The diet should 
be mild and not exciting. Should there be heat and 
irritation of the scalp, an occasional portion of six pellets 
of No. One may be given with advantage to relieve th« 
irritation. 


220 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


ECZEMA .—(Catarrhal Inflammation of the Shin—Scalled 
Head — Milk- Crust). 

Definition. —Eczema is essentially a catarrhal inflamma¬ 
tion of the skin characterized by more or less superficial 
redness, of small closely-packed vesicles, usually not larger 
than a pin’s head, which run together, burst, and pour out 
a serous fluid, that dries into thin yellow crusts. The exuded 
fluid has the property, when dried, of stiffening linen, 
which distinguishes this from other skin diseases. Pain, 
smarting or itching, are also present. It is one of the most 
common eruptions, constituting one-third or more of all 
skin affections; and lasts a varying time, in consequence of 
successive local developments, and its tendency to spread. 
After its disappearance no traces are left of the disease. 

Symptoms.— The most usual is a red surface with vesicles 
or fissures from which the serous fluid exudes. The ve¬ 
sicles appear in successive crops, may prolong the disease for 
an indefinite time, and are attended with itching and local 
heat. The skin is irritable; occasionally excoriations or 
crackings of the part occur, and sometimes the parts around 
the patch inflame, probably from the irritating nature of 
the discharge. If no vesicles be apparent, the disease may 
be recognized by the skin feeling thick when raised by the 
finger and thumb, by the starchy nature of the discharge, 
the formation of thin yellow crusts, and the irritation. The 
most common seats of the patches are the scalp, behind the 
ears, the face, the forearms, and the legs, and its appear¬ 
ance differs greatly in each of these locations. If the di¬ 
sease be extensive, there may be considerable fever, a pallid 
appearance, headache, loss of appetite, etc. The mucous 
surfaces may become the seat of inflammation, either by 
the spread of the disease from the skin or as a consequence 
of the general condition. The retrocession of Eczema may 
be followed by other diseases—Diarrhoea. Bronchitis, or 
Leucorrhoea in the female. 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.- DISEASES OF THE SKIN. 


221 


Varieties.— E. simplex, in which, the inflammation is 
moderate, and often results from exposure to the sun’s rays; 
or from irritants—heat, cold, bad soap, etc. If it occur in 
hot weather, the patient complains of fever, a “heated state 
of the blood,” etc., and the eruption follows, appearing on 
the exposed parts of the body—the face, neck, arms, back 
of the hands, etc.: this condition is commonly called “ heat¬ 
spots .” E. rubrum is a more highly inflammatory variety, 
the eruption being very red and shining, and there is much 
general disturbance; the burning is severe; brownish scabs 
are formed; and the parts usually affected are the inner side 
of the thigh, groin, elbow, wrist, etc.: it is apt to become 
chronic in old persons, and when it occurs about the legs, 
is called “the weeping leg,” and often leads to Ulcers. It 
often occurs on legs affected with varicose veins. E. impe- 
liginodes is the variety which occurs in lymphatic and de ¬ 
bilitated children, especially those who have a tendency to 
the formation oipus; the discharge is soon mixed with pus. 
which forms greenish-yellow thick scabs: it is commonly 
seen on the heads of infants ( Porrigo, Capitis, Scalled-head), 
and is a combination of Eczema and Impetigo. E. chro - 
nicum is the chronic form of any of the foregoing kinds of 
the disease; it often oscillates between cure and recurrence; 
and the skin becomes harsh, dry, red, and thickened. Sy¬ 
philitic or scrofulous complications render the disease 
very intractable. 

Causes. —Eczema probably depends upon constitutional 
irritability, and is sometimes hereditary; hence trivial ex¬ 
citing causes are sufficient to develop the disease—the 
action of the sun’s rays, heat, cold, the use of cosmetics, 
paints and washes, and stockings dyed with aniline, etc. 
In adults, it is a common sequel to overwork, anxiety, 
irregular habits, etc. The rash developed by sulphur' 
baths, the rubbing in of Croton oil, and also that following 
hydropathic treatment, is eczematous. Shoemakers, who 


222 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR 


sit long with their thighs together; grocers and cooks, from 
handling sugar, etc; washerwoman, from the frequent use 
of soda and soap; bricklayers and builders, from the con¬ 
tact of lime, and others, from similar causes, are liable to 
Eczema. In infants it is often due to friction and irritation 
of clothes wet with urine; improper food; impoverishment 
of the mother’s milk; or being too warmly covered; or want 
of attention to the general health. It is impossible to over¬ 
estimate the influence of improper diet and regimen in the 
production of Eczema. 

Treatment. —The Number Fourteen is the proper 
remedy and should be given six pellets four times per 
day, for adults, two or four pellets for children, dissolving 
each portion in a teaspoonful of water, or they may be 
given dry if the disease is only slight. After Number 
Fourteen has thus been taken a week, the doses may 
be reduced to one at noon, and one at night, and six 
pellets of Number Twenty-two should be given each 
morning in water. If there is violent itching, redness, 
and burning, and intolerable restlessness in case of child¬ 
ren, dissolve six pellets of Number One, in six spoon¬ 
fuls of water, and give a spoonful every hour, until the 
itching abates, and rest is procured. This is the proper 
treatment, and should be persevered in. 

Accessary Measures. —Under no conditions must soap 
or water be applied to the affected parts. Keep the parts 
well covered with vaseline to relieve the itching, and to 
prevent the formation of scabs, or if in the more advanced 
stages these have already formed, apply zinc ointment, 
before applying the zinc ointment cleanse the parts with 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DISEASES OF THE SKIN 223 

a black wash, i. e. 1 drachm of calomel to one pint of lime 
water, allowing the wash to dry, then apply the zinc 
ointment. Fresh air and exercise are very essential. The 
diet must be generous and nutritious, avoiding all indi¬ 
gestible foods, especially salty foods, as salted fish, corned 
beef, or fried foods, pork and bacon, pastry and cheese. 
Eat plenty of green vegetables, fresh fish, much milk and 
eggs. 


ACNE.—( Pimples ). 


Definitions. —‘ ‘A chronic Inflammation of the sebaceous 
glands and hair-follicles, characterized by an eruption of 
hard, conical and isolated elevations of moderate size and 
various degrees of redness. ” 

Names and Varieties. —The word “acne” (which in all 
probability was given in error for acme ), was intended to 
signify the occurrence of the disease at the acme of man’s 
development—puberty, when, indeed, the simple form is 
most common. In a punctata there is simply a collection 
of sebaceous or suety matter, in the form of a pointed 
eruption: this collection, when squeezed out of the skin, 
comes out in a cylindrical form, having the appearance of a 
small grub or maggot ( comedones) ; hence it is sometimes 
called 1 ‘maggot-pimple, 5 ’ and is most frequent in young fe¬ 
males. A indurata —sometimes called “ stone-pock”—de¬ 
scribes the disease when it is chronic and indolent, and 
when the pimples have become hard , with a dusky-red base; 


224 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


they are often painful, and produce a sensation of tightness 
about the face, the skin being congested and thickened. 
A. rosacea is seldom seen in young persons, but sometimes 
occurs in women in whom the catamenial function is imper¬ 
fect; the redness is bright, there being much congestion; 
the veins are varicose, the face is much disfigured, the sur¬ 
face is red and dotted over with pustules, the skin is thick¬ 
ened, and food and stimulants produce great burning and 
flushing* of the face. Alcohol, by flushing the face, causes 
what are termed “grog-blossoms,” which are spots of Acne; 
but the disease is not necessarily connected with frequent 
alcoholic stimulation, since it sometimes occurs in the ab¬ 
stemious. A. strophulosa —“white Gum-rash”—consists of 
small white pimples, chiefly about the face and neck. 

Causes. —Congestion of the sebaceous or fatty follicles. 
This condition may be induced by various internal and ex¬ 
ternal agencies; by the stomach, which has a great reflex 
action on the face, as seen in flushings after food, etc.; by 
enervation, intemperance, constipation; physiological 
changes (as puberty); menstrual irregularities, and sexual 
abuse by young men; cold; the use of cosmetics; the effects 
of some medicine, as Iodine; neglect of cleanliness, etc. 
It is of most frequent occurence in the spring season, and 
then often returns for several successive years. 

Treatment.— Take six pellets of Number Fourteen, 
night and morning, or, if the face or pimples are red, take 
Number Thirty-Five, morning, and Number Fourteen 
at night. If the eruption is driven from the face by 
applications, it is liable to be followed by disease. Such 
applications are, moreover, unnecessary, as the eruption 
will disappear if Number Fourteen and Thirty-Five, 
is perseveringly used. 

Accessory Means.— Simple diet, exercise, bathing, and 
the correction of indigestion, menstrual derangement, de¬ 
bility and any obvious constitutional or local causes. 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-DISEASES OF THE SKIN. 225 


ITCH.— (Scabies). 

This well known disease consists of a peculiar eruption 
of the skin, characterized by pointed vesicles, usually small, 
transparent at the top, and filled with thin matter, and 
sometimes these pimples become enlarged to pea size, like 
pustules or blisters. The pimples on being scratched, often 
bleed, or the tops become filled with dark blood. The 
eruptions appear on every part of the body, except the face, 
generally most abundant on the wrists, and between the 
fingers, less so on the arms, and legs, and body. It is 
attended with violent itching, worse at night and when un- 
dressing, and is more common and more likely to appear 
on children than adults. It is caused by the burrowing in 
the skin of a minute insect, called the Acaris-scabei, and 
the violence of the symptoms depends upon the number of 
these insects present, the length of time they have been 
present, and the degree of sensibility of the patient’s skin. 
It is strictly infectious and readily communicated by con¬ 
tact, clothing, or sleeping in the same bed. 

Treatment.— This is not a disease to be cured in a day. 
It will at best require some weeks, if fully developed, oft- 
times longer. The patient should have plain, but good, 
wholesome food, free from condiments or stimulants as 
possible, and the greatest care should be observed by fre¬ 
quent bathing, and change of linen, to keep the skin as 
pure and free from infectious matter as possible. Dissolve 
daily twelve pellets of Number Fourteen in four spoon¬ 
fuls of water, of which give a spoonful four times per 
day. Prepare likewise a lotion, by putting one ounce 
flour of sulphur to eight ounces of alcohol, and after 
shaking well, put a table-spoonful of this tincture to a coffee 
cup of water, and after bathing every night, apply this to 
the surface. 

In general practice, the free application of Sulphur - 


>-26 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


ointment is rapidly effective in destroying the insect and 
its ova. After thoroughly rubbing the whole body with 
soft-soap and warm water, then washing in a hot-bath, 
or with hot water, and wiping thoroughly dry, the super¬ 
ficial and effete cuticle is removed, and the burrows and 
parasites freely exposed; the ointment should then be well 
rubbed in and allowed to remain on the body all night. 
On the following morning a tepid bath, using yellow soap to 
wash off the ointment left on overnight. 

If the application of the ointment and the ablutions be not 
thorough, the process should be repeated once or twice. 
Sulphur-ointment must not be continued too long, or it will 
produce an irritable state of the skin, which may be 
mistaken for a persistence of the disease. The adminis¬ 
tration of Sulphur , during the use of the ointment, and for 
two or three days subsequently, is recommended. Greasy 
substances alone are natural cures of Itch. Glenn’s Sul¬ 
phur Soap , which may be procured at any druggist’s, is also 
very effective. This may be applied at night after bathing, 
forming a lather upon the surface which may be sponged 
off the next morning. All contaminated linen should be 
put into boiling water; other garments should be well 
ironed with a hot iron, or exposed to hot air at a tempera¬ 
ture not less than 150° or 180° Fahr., or well fumigated 
with the vapour of Sulphur , to destroy any insects or ova 
concealed in the texture of the linen. The cure is often re 
tarded, and the disease conveyed to others, by neglecting 
to carry out these suggestions as to clothing. 


BOILS.—( Furuncles ). 

Boils are hard, painful swellings on the skin, which in¬ 
flame slowly, suppurate and discharge. The matter first 
discharged is bloody or mixed with blood, but afterwards is 
pus or degenerated tissue, and at last is a hard mass termed 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT. DISEASES OP THE SKIN. 22? 

a core. Not unfrequently boils appear' successively or in 
crops upon the same individual, continuing for months, and 
causing great annoyance and suffering. They are caused 
by disordered condition of blood, from unwholesome food, 
overwork, anxiety, some unknown atmospheric causes, or 
from depressing influences generally. 

Boils may be prevented from coming to a head by gently 
rubbing the surface every three or four hours with the tips 
of the fingers,, wetted with Spirits of Camphor, and then 
covering the spot with flannel soaked in Camphorated Oil. 

In order further to prevent a recurrence of Boils, atten¬ 
tion must be directed to the constitutional causes in which 
they originate. If, as is often the case, they arise from di¬ 
gestive derangement, abstinence from rich gravies, pastry, 
sweet-dishes, etc., is imperatively necessary. Correct diet, 
cleanliness, and healthy exercise and recreation in the open 
air, will do more towards eradicating a predisposition to 
Boils and other affections of the skin than the use of drugs. 

Treatment. —The No. Fourteen and No. Thirty-five 
should be given in alternation, six pellets of each dissolved 
in as many spoonfuls of water, and taken in alternation 
four or more times a day, according to the urgency of the 
case. A cloth wet in Humphreys' Marvel Witch Hazel 
and laid on the boil will allay the pain and inflam¬ 
mation. 

To prevent a recurrence of the boil, or a new crop, take 
for two or three weeks, six pellets of No. Fourteen at 
;iight, and of No. Thirty-five each morning. 

CARBUNCLE.— {Anthrax). 

The carbuncle differs from the boil, though somewhat 
Similar. It is a deep seated, hard circumscribed swelling, 
of livid hue, attended with great pain, itching, and burning 
heat, occurring usually on the nape of the neck or back* 


228 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


It does not suppurate and discharge like the boil, but a 
thin acrid offensive fluid runs from several openings, which 
communicate with each other, leaving for a time a whitish 
mass within, which, on being discharged, leaves a deep, 
ugly cavity. Carbuncles arise from an infection by the 
micro-organism streptococcus, usually met with in debilitated 
constitutions, as the result of chronic, exhausting diseases, 
or severe, acute maladies; great alteration in habits, or 
diet; long continued fatigue; they are usually found in 
persons who have passed middle life, and oftener in men 
than in women. 

The disease runs its course slowly, is attended with fever 
and prostration; and when the tumor is large, and seated 
on the head, spine or nape, is not free from danger. 

Diagnosis. —Carbuncle differs from a Boil in its greater 
size; its broad, flat shape; in usually appearing singly; in 
giving way and discharging from several openings; in the 
dusky redness of the inflamed integument; and in the 
great constitutional disturbance and irritation which 
accompany it. 

Treatment. —At first, while there is considerable fever, 
the No. One should be given every hour two pellets in 
fluid, and after the fever has abated, and the tumor more 
advanced, the No. Twenty-two and No. Twenty-three 
should be given in alternation every two hours. Dissolve 
twelve pellets of each, in six spoonfuls of water, in separate 
glasses, and give every three hours a spoonful alternately. 
An application of Humphreys’ Witch Hazel Ointment 
(Comp.), will be of relief, or a poultice of flaxseed, where 
the tumor is very hard, hot and unyielding. The 
medicinal influence is the main relief, and the disease 
at best yields slowly. After the Carbuncle has been 
opened or has opened of itself, apply a compress, kept 
wet with Humphreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel. 


WHITLOW.— (Felon ). 

This is an affection which usually appears at the end of 
the finger, and at others, down deep beneath the fascia, or 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-DISEASES OF THE SKIN. 229 


in the ball of the finger or thumb. It is usually attended 
with heat, swelling, and great pain, and is liable to re¬ 
appear in the same person, unless the proper constitutional 
Homeopathic remedies are used to eradicate the predispo¬ 
sition from the system. 

Treatment.— The Number Twenty-Two is the 
proper remedy, of which dissolve twelve pellets in six 
spoonsful of water, and give a spoonful every two or three 
hours, continuing the same from day to day. On the first 
indications of Whitlow being noticed, the finger should be 
repeatedly plunged into water as hot can be borne, in 
which common salt has been dissolved for two hours, or 
longer; the hand should be held in a raised posture. If 
these means be commenced too late, poultices of flax-seed, 
slippery elm, or bread and milk, may be applied with ad¬ 
vantage, to soften the swelling and hasten suppuration, 
and the matter had best be discharged as soon as fluctua¬ 
tion is clearly perceived. 

ONYCHIA.—( Inflammation of the substance from which the 
nails grow). 

May be induced by similar causes to those of Whitlow, 
and especially by an in-growing nail; or by cutting the nail 
down to the “quick.” 

Treatment. —Same as for Felon. 


IN-GKOWING OF THE NAIL. 

May be remedied by softening it in warm water, then 
paring it thin on the upper surface, and cutting it down as 
far as may be at the middle part of the extremity, avoiding 
cutting the parts which tend to grow in. By these means tin 
growth is diverted from the sides; since a nail will gro‘*t 
most where it is cut most . 


230 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR 


ABSCESSES. 

The term abscess is usually employed to indicate any 
morbid collection of matter. 

An abscess may be acute or chronic. The acute is al¬ 
ways preceded by heat, soreness or sensibility of the part, 
followed by suppuration. The appearance of the skin 
changes with the commencement of suppuration. The 
surface, usually red, becomes livid, the pain becomes more 
dull and throbbing, the swelling increases in bulk and if 
not too deeply seated, fluctuation may be discovered, and 
at this time there are almost always more or less of chills 
or slight rigors, succeeded by heat. After the abscess is 
fully ripe it assumes a more conical form or is said to point, 
and over this space the skin becomes livid, yellowish and 
ere long bursts and the contents are discharged. 

Chronic abscesses often begin and approach the surface, 
without any considerable constitutional disturbance, and 
the discharge is unhealthy, thin, serous and containing 
flaky or cheesy substances. If the abscess is large, after 
the pus is evacuated and air admitted, the surrounding 
cyst becomes inflamed, and severe constitutional disturb¬ 
ance, hectic fever, etc., may arise. 

Treatment. —We may hasten the suppurative process of 
acute abscesses, by applying warm poultices or Humphreys’ 
Marvel Witch Hazel and they likewise afford some relief. 

After the formation of matter is clearly announced by 
fluctuation, and the pointing or protrusion of some portion 
of the abscess, the matter should be discharged by a lancet 
inserted at the most depending portion of the abscess, and 
if the collection of matter is large, it may be necessary to 
repeat the process. 

After the abscess has been opened or has opened of it¬ 
self, apply a compress kept wet with Humphreys’ Marvel 
Witch Hazel. 

The No. One and No. Twenty-two should be 
given alternately, every two hours, during the inflam¬ 
matory stage and until suppuration occurs. Then omit 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DISEASES OF THE SKIN. 231 


the No. One, and in place give the No. Twenty-Three, 
and so continue the Nos. Twenty-Two and Twenty- 
Three, at intervals of four hours. 

For Chronic abscesses, the Number Twenty-two 
and Twenty-Three should be given, six pellets in 
water, and four times per day in alternation. 

COENS,—( Clavus), and BUNIONS. 

A Corn consists of a growth of the scarf-skin caused by 
the pressure or friction of tight or badly fitting boots or 
shoes. It not only lies on the true skin, but its pressure 
causes the true skin to waste, and the corn fills up the 
space, thus penetrating into the skin. Soft corns are those 
situated where the secretions of the skin are confined, as 
between the toes—keeping the com moist and soft. 

A Bunion is an enlargement of the sac, over the joint of 
the great or little toe, chiefly the former, with more or less 
deformity of the joint. It is caused by the pressure of 
narrow-pointed boots or shoes , throwing the great toe over or 
under the contiguous toes; in this way a sharp angle is 
made on the inner side of the joint of the great toe, on 
Which the bunion is formed. Both corns and bunions give 
rise to much pain, redness, and swelling of the part, which 
soon subside on removal of the cause. 

These troublesome excrescences are far more liable to 
form on the feet of some persons than others, thereby 
showing a constitutional predisposition, which is a proper 
subject of medical treatment. Tight shoes, and especially 
high heels which throw undue weight upon the ball or the 
toes of the foot, commonly give occasion to their formation, 
and hence frequent changes of boots or shoes are of advan¬ 
tage. It is far from wise to constantly wear the same 
covering for the feet. Heavy thick boots or shoes for 
winter and wet weather, Arctic rubbers for snow and severe 
cold, light shoes for summer, and slippers for evening and 


232 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


house wear. This variety of covering is not only suitable 
and comfortable, but relieves the feet from constant 
pressure, on the same or suffering parts, and withal is 
economical. Often washing of the feet, and frequent 
change of stockings are also necessary to a perfect cure. 

Treatment. —When Corns are inflamed and trouble¬ 
some, soak the feet well in warm water, with two ounces 
of bicarbonate of Soda to the gallon, for half an hour; 
then pare the corn, or raise its hard head from the edge 
gently with the finger-nail, or some convenient instru¬ 
ment; in the center will be found a white spot or root, 
going deeper in; pick it out with the point of knife, and 
afterward wear a piece of plaster with a hole in the center 
over the middle of the corn. The free and frequent 
application of Humphreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel or 
Witch Hazel Ointment (Comp.) and following the bath¬ 
ing up for several nights, will give prompt relief. 

Hard corns on the sole of the foot are best treated by 
repeated filing with a rasp. 

Soft corns are best treated by carefully cutting off the 
thickened skin with sharpened scissors, then applying 
Humphreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel or Witch Hazel 
Ointment (Comp.), and always wearing a layer of cotton¬ 
wool between the toes, changing the wool daily. 

Besides, take of the No. Twenty-two, six pellets each 
night, and of No. Thirty-five, six pellets each morning 
for a week or more, to break up the predisposition to 
their formation. 

In the case of Bunions the direction of the toe must be 
changed by wearing properly-shaped boots, made with the 
inner side of the sole straight from the toe to the heel. If 
irritation be accidentally excited in the part, a warm foot¬ 
bath should be used, and afterwards the Humphreys’ 
Marvel Witch Hazel or Witch Hazel Ointment (Comp.) 
freely used for two or three days. Should matter form, 
a ‘inseed-jneal poultice will be suitable. 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DISEASES OF THE SKIN. 233 


CHILBLAIN.— (Pernio). 

Chilblains are a low kind of inflammation, mostly affecting 
the hands, or the sides, soles and heels of the feet, and cau¬ 
sed by sudden changes from cold to heat; especially in 
weakly persons of languid circulation, in children, scrofu¬ 
lous people, and in old age. A chilblain begins with swell¬ 
ing, slight purplish redness, pain, tingling, burning, itching, 
and may go on to form a blister, followed by ulceration. 
“Chapped” or “cracked” bands, during frosty weather, is of 
the nature of chillblain, and requires similar treatment. 

Treatment. —Dissolve ten or twelve pellets of No. One, 
in as many spoonfuls of water, of which give every hour to 
children a tea, and to adults a large spoonful until the itch¬ 
ing and irritation are relieved. Then give of No. Fourteen, 
four pellets, three times per day. 

Bathe the parts with Humphreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel or 
with the Humphreys* Witch Hazel Ointment (Comp.). It will 
promptly relieve the burning and irritation, and may be 
used in conjunction with the other Remedies named. 

Preventives. —As Chilblains generally occur in persons 
whose nutrition is defective, free use of wholesome nutri¬ 
tious diet, is necessary to prevent their recurrence. Pork, 
salted meats, and all irritating or indigestible articles of 
food, should be excluded from the dietary. Extremes of 
temperature are to be avoided; and suddenly approaching 
the fire after coming in from the cold, or warming the feet 
on the fender, or the hands close to the fire. 

FROST BITES AND FROZEN LIMBS. 

When any portion of the person has been frost bitten oi 
frozen, the part, ear, nose, cheek, fingers or toes, should im¬ 
mediately be rubbed in snow or ice cold water, and this 


234 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


should be carefully continued until the part becomes red 
and the sensation and circulation are restored. Then the 
best application is Witch Hazel Ointment (Comp.). 
Moisten a fine rag or some cotton batting with the same, 
and envelop the frost bitten part with it, and then from 
time to time, remoisten and apply it, as it gets dry, until 
the part is restored. No. Fourteen, six pellets, four 
times per day, will aid in restoring the part. 




DISEASES OF THE HEAD AND NERYOUS 
SYSTEM. 

HEADACHES. 

Headaches are various in their character and are pro* 
duced by a variety of causes. It is less frequently a di¬ 
sease itself, than a symptom of some more general affec¬ 
tion. Sometimes it is comparatively trivial, at other times 
of very grave importance, often interrupting any constant 
vocation of the patient, causing great suffering, and prost¬ 
rating the system so frequently as to rapidly undermine 
the general health. With some persons, the slightest in¬ 
discretion in diet, or deviation from ordinary quiet habits, 
is followed by an attack of headache. The pain may be 
located in a single part, or involve the entire head; and is 
often accompanied with extreme nausea and painful retch¬ 
ing and vomiting. The attacks are often provoked by some 
exposure, excitement, or error in diet, and sometimes they 
return at pretty regular interval! of seven or fourteen 
days. They may likewise be of congestive, rheumatic, bi¬ 
lious, catarrhal, or nervous origin. 

Congestive headaches occur in plethoric persons of full 
habit, and are accompanied by a sense of fulness and 
throbbing in the head, red or very pale face, redness of 
the eyes, with sense of soreness on turning them, and often 
intolerance of light. 

In bilious headache there is often coated tongue, bad 
taste in the mouth, and the pain is dull, aching or racking 



236 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR 


sometimes moving from one part to the other, while the 
scalp may be sore and bowels constipated. Catarrhal 
headaches are indicated by dull, heavy pains across the 
forehead and upper part of the nose, attended with obstruc¬ 
tion of the nose or fluent discharges. 

Treatment. —Persons who are subject to headaches 
should abandon the use of coffee, and also of strong tea, as 
the use of these beverages often contributes to keep up the 
disease, and in some cases alone cause it. They should 
live regularly and temperately, and avoid as far as possible 
the known or exciting causes of the disease. Beside this 
regimem, they should take each morning six pellets of No. 
Thirty-five, and at night six more of No. Ten, as a pre¬ 
ventive, and to eradicate the predisposition to these attacks. 

When a paroxysm of headaches comes on, if it has the 
symptoms of congestion mentioned above, the No. One 
and No. Thirty-five should be given every hour, alter¬ 
nately, in fluid. 

If the attack indicates a bilious condition, the No. Nine 
and Tonic Tablets should be given every hour in alterna¬ 
tion, two Tablets at a dose. Should the attack commense 
with blindness, soon followed by nausea and vomiting, or 
other severe symptoms, give every half hour, or even 
more frequently. Should there be heat, fever or 
throbbing of the vessels of the head or temples, 
substitute the No. One for the No. Ten, and continue 
in the same manner. 

For the usual form of sick-head ache, as it is generally 
termed, with nausea, vomiting, prostration, often intoler¬ 
ance of light or noise, the No. Nine and No. Ten should 
be given o^ T ery hour or half hour, in alternation, until 
relieved. 

Headaches in Females, occuring just before oi during 
the monthly period, will be relieved by taking the Na 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-DISEASES OF THE HEAD, ETC. 237 

Eleven, either alone or in alternation with No. Thirty- 
Five, especially if the periods are painful or too profuse, 
Headaches from constipation will be relieved by using the 
No. Ten, six pellets night and morning. 

Old, long-standing headaches, requires time and 
perseverance, but can always be accomplished by the 
persistant use of the remedies before mentioned. 

Persons subject to headaches, find, on arising with the 
symptoms of a headache in the morning, or at other 
times, that by taking a glass of lemonade the impending 
attack is warded off. The free use of this beverage or of 
lemon-juice has often prevented, and in some instances 
seems to have cured old and inveterate headaches. It is 
an agreeable remedy and well worth a trial. 

VERTIGO OR GIDDINESS. 

This affection may arise from a variety of causes, and so 
is cured by a variety of remedies. It may be a transient 
condition, or become chronic and comparatively per¬ 
manent. It often arises from plethoric or full habit; 
from overloading the digestive organs, or from debilitating 
discharges, or from the use of narcotics. 

Treatment. —When connected with full habit, red face, 
sparks before the eyes, etc., the No. One is the remedy. 
If there is indigestion or overloaded stomach, take No. 
Ten. If there have been debilitating discharges, such as 
diarrhea, leucorrhea, No. Twenty-four, or in some cases 
No. Twenty-eight. Chronic vertigo, referable to no im¬ 
mediate producing cause, requires the No. Thirty-five. 

APOPLEXY. 

What is termed a fit of apoplexy, is a sudden loss more 
or less complete of consciousness and motion, the patient 


238 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


sinking’ down as if dead, though the respiration and action 
of the heart continue in a somewhat irregular manner. It 
is different from spasm, the hands are not clenched or ex¬ 
tremities rigid, but apparently dead and without motion. 
It is occasioned by an effusion of blood or of serum upon 
the brain, or from so intense a degree of congestion, as to 
paralyze the action of this organ. It is always the expres¬ 
sion of some constitutional defect or tissue-depravation: 

There is a popular error, shared to some extent by the 
profession, that apoplexy is the frequent cause of sudden 
death; and that persons with a short, thick neck and red 
face are most liable to it. It is true that such persons often 
die suddenly, but the suddeness of their death is generally 
due to heart-disease. A man with a red face has no more 
blood in his head than another with a pale face; and ii 
blood is poured out into the brain it is because the diseased 
blood-vessel could no longer delay the fatal mischief. It is, 
then, the person with diseased arteries in whom apoplexy 
is most likely to occur, and this may exist in those who are 
pale and thin and have long necks. Apoplexy is more fre¬ 
quent as a cause of death after age of 50; the gradual de¬ 
generation or ossification of arteries common to old age 
rendering them inelastic, and as the blood is forced in them 
by the heart’s action, they give way. Intemperance, ex¬ 
cessive eating or drinking, uncontrolled passion, tight 
clothing around the neck, too close mental labor, etc.—all 
tend to cerebral congestion—so do diseases affecting the 
heart, kidneys, or blood-vessels of the brain, suppressed 
hcemorrhages, or menses. It is more important to know 
and arrest the premonitory symptoms, as after the attack 
has become fully developed, but comparatively little can be 
done by way of treatment. The symptoms which point to 
an attack, are these: Great disposition to sleep; feeling of 
heaviness; dimness of sight; buzzing in the ears; hardness 
of hearing; heavy, deep sleep and loud snoring; yawning 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-DISEASES OF THE HEAD, ETC. 239 


and fatigue after slight exertion; vertigo or giddiness; 
irritable disposition; loss of memory; forgetfulness of 
words or things; double or very acute vision; difficulty of 
swallowing; numbness, torpor or pricking sensation in the 
extremities; rush of blood to the head, with beating of 
the temporal arteries; red face and quick, hard, tense 
pulse. These symptoms are indicative of severe congestion 
of blood to the head, and unless arrested, may result in 
an effusion or fit of apoplexy. 

Treatment. —This condition requires, first the use of 
the No. One, if the symptoms are at all urgent; give six 
pellets every one or two hours until the oppression and 
sense of fulness is somewhat relieved, and in some cases 
this remedy will alone be sufficient for the time. Then 
commence and give the No. Thirty-five and No. Ten, 
four times per day, six pellets at a time, in alternation, 
No. Thirty-five before breakfast and supper, and No. 
Ten before dinner and at bedtime until entirely relieved. 
Then, to prevent a return, the No. Thirty-five should be 
taken each morning, and the No. Ten each night for 
some weeks, six pellets at a dose. 

When a person falls down in a fit of opoplexy, (which 
may be known from drunkenness by the absence of the 
smell of liquor in the breath, and from epilepsy by the ab¬ 
sence of the peculiar scream, and frothing at the mouth, 
and convulsion), cold applications should at once be 
made to the head, and the feet should be immersed to the 
knees, if possible, in quite warm water, and the No. One 
and No. Thirty-five given, dissolved, six pellets, in a 
few drops of water, at intervals of every half hour, alter¬ 
nately, until animation is restored, and then at longer in¬ 
tervals as the patient improves. Afterwards, the No. 
Ten and No. Thirty-five may be continued to prevent 
a recurrence of the attack. 

Accessories during a Fit. —1. The patient should be im- 


240 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


mediately conveyed to a large apartment where the cold air 
can freely circulate around him. 2. The neckerchief, and 
bandages of every kind, loosened, and the patient placed in 
a warm bed, with the head moderately raised. 3. Warmth 
should be applied to tho extremities and arm-pits, cloths 
wrung out of hot water, and renewed as soon as they be¬ 
come cool, to the head; and heat applied to the pit of the 
stomach. 

After a Fit.— Should the patient recover from the fit, 
great and unremitting care must be observed to prevent 
another attack. The diet should be light, but nourishing; 
milk, light puddings, cooked vegetables, fish, etc., are ex¬ 
tremely valuable; a full animal-diet should not be allowed 
till all fear of a relapse is passed; and stimulants should al¬ 
most invariably be avoided. Physical and mental exertion 
and excesses of every nature; fits of passion or excitement; 
sudden changes of temperature, over-heated rooms, warm 
baths, wet feet, exposure to a hot sun, violent emotions, 
etc., as well as errors in diet must be uniformly avoided 
by those predisposed to apoplexy. Moderate exercise of the 
muscles is a remedial agent of high value; it tends to pro¬ 
mote a more active circulation through the entire systym, 
and, consequently, to diminish the pressure on blood¬ 
vessels which a little extra force might cause to give way. 
If active exercise cannot be taken, frictions performed by a 
second person by means of towels or flesh-brushes over the 
surface of the body and the extremities are necessary. 

CONGESTION, OR RUSH OF BLOOD TO THE HEAD, 
HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE. 

Persons of full habit, and who lead a sedentary life, are 
subject to the above conditions. They are brought on or 
excited by intense or long-continued mental application, 
want of exercise, and often by too free indulgence in 
stimulating food, wine or alcoholic drinks. 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DISEASES OF THE HEAD, ETC. 241 

The symptoms are: a sense of fulness in the head and 
neck; unusual beating or throbbing of the arteries through¬ 
out the body and head; heat, redness and bloating of the 
face, or sometimes paleness and puffing of the face; attacks 
of giddiness or vertigo, more after sleeping or sitting in a 
warm room, or from exposure to the sun; frequent head¬ 
ache, especially in the forehead, worse on coughing or 
stooping; buzzing or noise in the ears; oppressed breathing; 
dry, enlarged or reddish tongue; constipation; drowsiness 
by day and sleeplessness at night. These symptoms may 
come and go with the causes which excite them, or become 
a more or less permanent condition. 

Treatment.— If the symptoms are urgent, dissolve twelve 
pellets of No. One in six spoonfuls of water, of which take 
a spoonful every hour, until relieved; then, each morning, 
take six pellets of No. Thirty-five, and each night six pellets 
of No. Ten, until every trace of the affection has disappeared. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE BRAIN.— (Encephalitis^ 

Meningitis).* 

The manifestations of this disease are varied very much 
by the age, sex and temperament of the patient, the loca¬ 
tion of the affection, and the causes which have produced 
it. Children, from the greater delicacy and relatively 
greater size of the organ, are far more liable to it than 
adults, and from greater delicacy of nervous organization, 
women are perhaps more so than men. 


* By Encephalitis is meant inflammation of the Brain, and its mem - 
hranes, the term being only used when it is impossible to locate the 
exact seat of the inflammation. Meningitis is the term applied to in¬ 
flammation of the Brain-membranes alone. Inflammation of the Brain, 
refers to inflammation of the brain-substance itself, which is of com¬ 
paratively rare occurrence, and always limited to one part of the 
brain. 



242 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


When the coverings or tissues of the brain are affected, 
the pain is more intense, and the symptoms more violent 
than when the substance of the organ is the seat of the 
disease; while in the latter case, the symptoms of dullness, 
coma and tendency to paralysis are more prominent. 

Causes. —Whatever tends to overtask and excite this 
organ, is liable to induce the disease, such as extremes of 
heat or cold; abuse of ardent spirits; intense mental emo¬ 
tions; excesses of all kinds, or concussions of the brain; and 
in children especially, falls or blows upon the head, expo¬ 
sure to the sun, and overtaxing their faculties. And it may 
also be the result of repelled scalp-eruptions, or a metastasis 
of disease from some other organ. 

The Symptoms, which usually precede the attack for some 
days, are those indicating congestion of the blood to the 
head; sense of weight, fulness and pressure in the head; 
occasional darting or shooting pains; ringing in the ears 
and feverish symptoms. Farther on, the giddiness and 
sense of weight in the head are increased; pulse quickened, 
with some heat, restlessness and tossing at night; the mind 
becomes irritable, the patient peevish and annoyed at 
trifles; and there may be stupefaction and drowsiness, and 
muttering delirium or great excitability. The patient may 
be wild and frenzied at the slightest light or noise, with 
attempts to jump out of bed or run away; the eyes may be 
wild and bloodshot or turned up and distressed at the 
slightest approach of light. The fever varies according to 
the seat of the disease and the excitability of the patient; 
and the pulse varies from time to time, at one time quick 
or irregular, at another full or even slow. A very quick or 
very slow pulse indicates danger. Sometimes there is re j 
tention of urine, constipation, retracted abdomen, muscular 
twitchings, stupor or incontrollable vomiting; as the stupor 
increases convulsions commence, and the case sooner or 
later ends fatally. 


Disease and treatment.—diseases of the head, etc. 243 

In children, as only the objective symptoms can be 
known, it is of more importance to recognize them early. 
They are observed to manifest a heaviness of the head, by 
holding it backward when walking; frequently to hold the 
hand to the head from pain; to fall easily when walking or 
running; to dread the light; and to be easily annoyed or 
violently out of temper at trifles; or to have spells of vo¬ 
miting and constipation, and to be drowsy or very wakeful, 
with startings during sleep. 

As the case is more developed, the child bores with its 
head into the pillow; wants to lie down again when raised, 
and screams when the light shines in its face, or from any 
noise; or there is heavy, deep sleep, with great heat in the 
head; swelling and redness of the face; violent throbbing of 
the arteries of the neck, or great agitation and tossing 
about, especially at night; the eyes may be red and spark¬ 
ling, convulsed or fixed, with dilated or very much con¬ 
tracted pupils. 

Treatment. —The No. One and No. Thirty-five are our 
main reliance, and they should be given, dissolved in water, 
at intervals of every hour, or two hours, according to the 
urgency of the case. Dissolve twelve pellets of each of these 
remedies in six large spoonfuls of water, separately, and give 
to adults a tablespoonful, and to children a teaspoonful, 
alternately, from the two, at the intervals above mentioned, 
and so continue until the case is relieved. 

Wet hot cloths may be applied with advantage to the 
head, and the feet from time to time bathed in quite warm 
water, if the condition of the patient admits it. Doom 
should be well ventilated, kept perfectly quiet and some¬ 
what darkened. Beef-tea, strong broths, milk and soda- 
water, but no solid food should be given. Cold water or 
other simple liquids may be freely given—and great caution 
exercised during recovery. 


244 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


DROPSY OF THE BRAIN.—(. Hydrocephalus ). 

This affection is not uncommon among small children, 
and sometimes even adults. It may come on as the sequel 
of scarlatina, inflammation or other acute disease of the 
brain, or in consequence of falls or blows upon the head, or 
be excited from the long-continued irritation of teething; 
or it may arise as an independent or idiopathic disease in 
peculiar subjects. Scrofulous children with large heads 
and precocious intellects, whose fontanel remains a long 
time open, are peculiarly liable to it. In some cases it 
comes on so insidiously that the premonitory symptoms 
escape attention altogether, while in others the impending 
disease is indicated by these symptoms: Hot skin, quick 
pulse, especially at night; the child is peevish and dislikes 
to be raised up when lying down, and sometimes has fits of 
screaming, redness of the face and eyes, and even at times 
squinting, convulsions or stupor. 

When the disease comes on in the more insidious form, 
the earlier indications are: languor and easy fatigue on the 
slightest exertion; aversion to movement; tottering gait, 
and great liability to fall; dislike of movement; indications 
of pain in the back of the head and neck; the head is hot; 
eyes look inflamed; pupils contracted; the stomach is drawn 
in and very irritable; easily vomiting when the patient sits 
or is raised upright; scanty urine and constipated bowels. 

At a more advanced stage the child loses all sense ot 
pain; lies quiet unless disturbed; drowsiness or stupor in¬ 
creases; the head sinks or bores into the pillows; the eyes 
half closed; pupils dilated or immovable, or sometimes 
drawn to one side or attended with double vision; the vo¬ 
miting becomes less or ceases, and the child may eat, buv 
emaciation progresses rapidly. Following these symptoms, 
convulsions more or less violent come on; constant moaning 
and entire loss of consciousness; the eyes are dim, glazed 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DISEASES OF THE HEAD, ETC. 245 

and turned upward, pulse quick; the upper and lower ex¬ 
tremities relaxed; tlie abdomen drawn up and breathing 
irregular, and the scene may terminate in a very violent 
convulsion. 

Treatment.— So soon as any symptoms pointing to dropsy, 
or even irritation of the brain are manifested, the No. One 
and No. Thirty-five, should be called into use, and two 
pellets be given alternately, in fluid, from these two remedies 
at intervals of two hours, until the danger has been averted. 

Should the symptoms have become more decided, it will 
be best to dissolve twelve pellets of No. One and the same 
of No. Thirty-five, in as many teaspoonfuls of water, and 
from these two give alternately, every hour a spoonful, until 
the desired relief is obtained. 

Benefit will be derived from frequently bathing the feet 
in quite warm water, and afterwards wrapping them in 
warm flannels, and applying cloths wrung out of cold or ice 
water to the head. A bag of pounded ice applied to the 
head, is often very serviceable; and these measures should 
be continued perseveringly to the desired end. In extreme 
cases the alternate use of No. One and No. Twenty-five, 
given as above, is advisable; but, in general, the first men¬ 
tioned remedies will prove sufficient. 

CHRONIC DROPSY OF THE BRAIN.— {Hydrocephalus). 

This form of the disease generally comes on insidiously, 
though it may be the result of the acute attack. The head 
of the child gradually enlarges, while the face retains its 
natural size; and in quite young children the bones of the 
cranium may separate, and the presence of fluid even be 
detected from its fluctuation. It generally occurs within 
the first year, before the sutures and fontanelles are closed, 
eo that the bones yield to pressure from within. Infante 


246 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


are sometimes born hydrocephalic, when it is an occasional 
cause of difficult labor. 

Symptoms.— The premonitory indications of this disease 
are not very distinctive: there may be squinting or rolling 
of the eyes if the disease be congenital, followed by Convul¬ 
sions and enlargment of the head. 

The most marked features are—a disproportion between 
the size of the skull and that of the face, the fontanelles 
are wider than usual, and the bones feel thin under pres¬ 
sure of the fingers. Emaciation is generally present 
through non-nutrition; in some cases there is an unnatural 
fat condition. If an infant, he sucks well, even voraciously, 
and yet he does not grow; his bowels are constipated, and 
his motions unhealthy. The gradually-increasing head 
soon attracts notice: the anterior fontanelle pulsates; there 
is heat of the head, and the child becomes very restless. 
Fluctuation may be felt by applying the hand to the top of 
the head; the hair ceases to grow as usual; the face appears 
small and triangular; the countenance is dull, having an 
aged appearance; and the patient is continually wishing to 
lie down. In fatal cases, the senses becomes impaired; 
Paralysis sets in; and the patient dies from exhaustion, 
Convulsions, or Spasmodic Croup, to which such children 
are liable. 

The duration of the disease varies from one to eight, or 
even ten years. Should effusion be arrested, the accumu¬ 
lation of serum already present remains, for it is never ab¬ 
sorbed. 

Causes. —Chronic Hydrocephalus is usually associated 
with the scrofulous cachexia; sometimes it follows Scarla¬ 
tina, Hooping-cough, or Measles. The most common ex¬ 
citing causes are—undue exposure to heat or cold, injuries 
of the head, suppressed eruptions, or extended inflammation 
of the ear. “One warning may be learned from this disease, 
namely, that it is said to be most common in the children 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-DISEASES OF THE HEAD, ETC. 247 

of parents addicted to drunkenness, and from tliis cause it 
often runs in families ” (Aitken). 

In some cases, the intellect is preserved for a con¬ 
siderable period, and the child may live for years, with 
entire loss of some of the senses, as for instance the sight, 
the general condition being, otherwise, of tolerable health. 
Oftentimes the more immediate cause of death may be from 
some acute, inflammatory affection, consumption or ulcera¬ 
tion of the bowels. 

Treatment. — But little can be hoped for in the more con¬ 
firmed case of this disease. The No. Thirty-five and No. 
Twenty-five, may be given, two or three times per day, as 
.palliatives, in alternation but a cure can scarcely be ex¬ 
pected unless in the earlier stages. 

CONVULSIONS.— (Spasms, or Fits). 

Convulsions are very justly dreaded among children, not 
only because there is some danger attending them, but from 
their suddenness, and the evident distress and suffering of 
the patient. Their danger depends much upon the cause 
which has produced them. In some families the children 
have fits, as they are called, from very slight causes, and in 
such cases their appearance need not excite great alarm. 
Convulsions are dangerous when they set in after a fall, 
blow or injury upon the head, or after long continued di¬ 
sease of the brain, or after dropsy of the brain has set in; 
such are very frequently fatal precursors. They are of less 
consequence when they come on as the result of difficult 
teething, excessive pain, anger, earache, etc. Often the 
patient is better after the convulsion has passed over. Not 
unfrequently a severe attack of small-pox, scarlatina or 
measles is ushered in by convulsions. Though such cases 
are severe, they not unfrequently terminate favorably. If 
spasms appear towards the end of acute eruptive diseases, 


248 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


they are symptoms indicating a dangerous, if not fatal 
transition to the brain. The most common and among the 
most dangerous convulsions in children, are those arising 
from having eaten indigestible substances, such as raisins, 
oranges, dried-apples, nuts, green fruit, and similar indi¬ 
gestible articles, as the fit here depends upon the presence 
of the injurious substances, which it may be difficult to neu¬ 
tralize or dispose of. Yet even in these, the proper means 
will, in most cases, prove effectual. 

The phenomena of convulsion are well known. They 
often commence with a holding back of the head; straight-, 
ening out of the arms and legs; holding the breath; tightly 
clenching the hands; twitching of the muscles of the face; 
frothing at the mouth; involuntary evacuations, etc., after 
which the patient sinks into a deep sleep, lasting one or 
two hours. 

Treatment.— When children are observed to have somti 
degree of fever or heat of the head, and to twitch, or sud¬ 
denly start on going to sleep, or attempting to do so, there 
is danger of convulsions, and the No. One should be given, 
two pellets dry in the mouth, and repeated hourly until tha 
surface becomes cool, and quiet sleep is produced. When 
a convulsion has come on, the first thing is to get the child’s 
feet into warm water as high as the knees, if possible, which 
may be continued for five or ten minutes, and apply cold 
water by means of cloths wrung out of cold or even ice 
water to the head. Should the spasm not pass off from 
these applications, a small stream of cold water may be 
poured upon the head for a few minutes only, or the bath 
may be general; but these measures rarely will be required, 
Give also upon the tongue, two pellets of No. Thirty-three, 
and afterwards repeat it every hour in water. The child, 
after coming out of the bath, should be wrapped in warm flan¬ 
nels, withhead quite high. Should there be fever, give the No, 


DISEASE AND TBEATMENT.-DISEASES OP THE HEAD, ETC. 249 


One, the intermediate half hour between the portions of 
No. Thirty-Three , until the fever abates. This will also 
be the appropriate treatment, should you have reason to 
suspect the invasion of small-pox or scarlatina as the cause 
of the disease. 

If the convulsion has been caused by eating indigestible 
substances, in addition to the baths above advised, lose no 
time in giving an injection of tepid water , in which a spoonful 
of salt has been dissolved, and repeat it if needful until full 
and free evacuations occur, giving the No. Thirty-three 
and No. Ten, alternately every hour. 

If irritation from teething has been the exciting cause, 
the No. Three should be given alternately with No. Thirty- 
three, at intervals of an hour, and until the immediate 
danger is passed, and then the treatment should be continued 
as directed for teething. 

COUP DE SOLIEL.—( Insolation , Sun-Fever , Sun-Stroke, 
Heat-Stroke), 

A paralysis of all the functions of the brain, allied to 
apoplexy. 

Causes. —Sun-stroke is generally caused by fatigue or 
nervous exhaustion in a hot dry atmosphere, and want of 
free perspiration. Though most common from direct expo¬ 
sure to the rays of the sun; it may also be caused by a 
heated atmosphere, combined with breathing vitiated air in 
crowded apartments, such as barracks, upper lofts of ware¬ 
houses, hot close nurseries, etc. 

Symptoms. —Giddiness, faintness, thirst, sometimes head¬ 
ache, listlessness and torpor, with a desire to lie down, 
succeeded by more or less sudden and complete insen¬ 
sibility; the skin is hot and dry, the breathing rapid, the 
pupils of the eye contracted, the face pale, and an attack 
of vomiting or convulsions may usher in complete stupor. 


fiOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


250 

Just before death the pulse becomes fluttering, the breath¬ 
ing irregular and gasping, and the pupils dilated. Death 
may occur from five minutes to a few hours after the symp« 
toms have set in. The patient is not free from danger until 
the skin gets cool and moist again. After recovery from 
the first symptoms, there is a great tendency to paralysis or 
various forms of insanity, so that a person who has once 
Buffered from real sun-stroke, is never quite as sound a man 
again. 

Accessory Treatment.— If there be no convulsions , strip 
the patient, and dash cold water over him by the bucketful 
(in severe cases, rub the skin with pieces of ice, if it can be 
had), especially around head and shoulders, till temperature 
of body is reduced below 100°. Camphor should be in¬ 
haled and given on sugar—or a teaspoonful of brandy and 
water (half-and-half) may be given instead. 

If there be convulsions, place patient in a tepid bath, 
and add cold water till the body temperature is below 98°. 

Medical Treatment. —Same as for Apoplexy (page 239); 
Convulsions may be met with Number Thirty-three, 
(see page 248). 

Prevention.— Light and loose clothing, avoiding pressure 
on veins of neck. Flannel tends to prevent chills. Avoid 
liquor, over-fatigue, and all irregularities of habit and 
living. 


PARALYSIS.— (Palsy). 

A limb or portion of the body is said to be paralyzed 
when it is not under the control of the will, or when the 
will-power is not able to move or control it. The paralysis 
may be only partial, or it may be complete, and may affect 
the nerves of motion only, or may extend to those of sen¬ 
sation as well, so that the part has neither sensation nor 
power of motion. Sometimes the disease affects only a 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DISEASES OF THE HEAD, ETC. 253 

single limb, and at others the entire one side of the body, 
or again only the lower extremities. It may be caused by 
disease of the brain or spinal cord, from injury to, or pres- 
sure upon a nerve-trunk, or from the action of a poison. 
But in some, perhaps most cases, it is preceded by symp¬ 
toms which, though often unnoticed, should excite attention 
These are a sensation of numbness or pricking in one of 
the limbs, or the entire side, readily going to sleep, as it is 
termed of the part, coldness or undue paleness of the part, 
or slight convulsive twitching or jerking of the part or limb 
involved. When such symptoms are frequently repeated 
without apparent cause, they should excite apprehension. 

The Causes, aside from those mentioned above, are long 
continued strain upon the nervous system among men of 
business, exhausting drains upon the system, and a too 
luxurious or indolent mode of life, or other similar causes 
of apoplexy. 

There are different forms of Paralysis, some of which may 
briefly noted; viz.: 

Hemiplegia (“Paralytic Stroke”) is the most common 
form, and affects only one side of the body, most commonly 
the left side. It indicates disease of the brain on the oppo¬ 
site side to that paralysed. If one limb only is paralyzed, 
it is usually the arm. The paralysis may be complete, 
or some power of motion may be left. The eye remains 
permanently open, the face is drawn to the sound side 
and hangs down on the affected side; food accumulates 
in the cheek, there is loss of power of chewing on that 
side; speech is imperfect, and taste is lost in the front 
two-thirds of the tongue. Sometimes, there is dropping 
of the upper eyelid, dilated pupil, rolling outwards of the 
eyeball and indistinct vision. The chief causes of hemi¬ 
plegia are apoplexy, obstruction of brain blood-vessels 
and consequent cerebral softening. 

Paraplegia , is a paralysis, more or less complete, of the 


252 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


lower half of the body, and may be due to disease of the 
spinal cord and its membranes; to reflex action from a sen¬ 
sitive nerve, (such as from the irritation of teething, or 
worms in children); or from wounds; affections of the 
womb; from.urinary complaints, or emotional paralysis. 
It usually begins slowly, with weakness, numbness and 
tingling of the feet and legs, the weakness increases until 
there is loss of sensation and motion in the legs, paralysis 
of the bladder and sphincter muscle of the bowel, with 
involuntary movements and spasms of the legs. 

Other forms of Paralysis are General Paralysis , or 
Paresis , or “Paralysis of the Insane”; Wasting Palsy , not 
common, arising from fatty degeneration of the muscles, 
is often hereditary, and attacks all ages, but men most 
frequently; Locomotor Ataxia is a syphilitic disease 
ocurring ten or fifteen years after the initial infection and 
should be treated as tertiary syphilis; Paralysis Agitans , 
or “Shaking Palsy”, an involuntary trembling or jerking 
movement of the muscles, with diminished muscular 
power commencing in hands, arms or head and gradually 
extending over the body; Writer’s Cramp, attacking 
muscles of the thumb and fingers which hold the pen; 
and various forms or Local Paralysis , affecting particular 
sets of muscles. 

Facial Paralysis , most often occurs from exposure to 
cold, or from irritation from decayed teeth; comes on 
suddenly and without pain, and is first discovered by the 
patient when he begins to eat, or is told by a friend that 
his mouth is awry. There is a greater or less degree of 
the facial appearance noticed under the head of Hemiplegia 
—but the affection is in most cases quite independent of 
any disease of the brain, and is usually curable with 
facility. 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DISEASES OF THE HEAD, ETC. 253 

Infantile Paralysis , is a form of palsy, of obscure origin, 
ocurring in children during teething—i. e. from the sixth 
month till the third year. In occurs suddenly, and never 
extends from the limb first affected, to others. There may 
be slight fever and convulsions; and when consciousness 
returns, a foot, a hand, a leg or an arm, or both legs, may 
be found to be paralysed; but never a leg and arm on the 
same side; the bladder and bowels are never paralysed. 
Sometimes the disease ends in a day or two, in complete 
recovery, but oftener it is stationary and permanent. After 
a time, the affected limb becomes soft, relaxed, flexible and 
gradually withers. The skin becomes thin, fat is absorbed, 
muscles waste, and even the bone is diminished. In a 
year’s time the affected limb is much smaller than its fellow, 
the skin livid, and chilblains and ulcerations are easily 
formed on it. The general health may remain unimpaired 
and the sufferer live many years. 

Treatment. —The treatment of the different forms of 
paralysis or palsy by internal medication is extremely 
unsatisfactory; massage and electricity as each individual 
case requires offers the best chance of success. 


EPILEPSY. 


This disease is characterized by convulsions, returning 
at intervals, attended with sudden and complete loss of 
consciousness and sensibility, and spasmodic contractions of 


254 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOK. 


the muscles. These convulsive fits, which recur without 
any special regularity, last from one to twenty minutes and 
are followed by exhaustion and deep sleep. 

The fit is often unattended by any noticeable premoni¬ 
tory symptoms, or these are too brief to allow the patient 
to remove to a convenient place, or even to give an im^ 
timation of what is about to happen. In other instances, an 
approaching seizure is clearly indicated for many minutes, 
or even hours, before its actual occurrence. The warning 
is variable in different cases, often consisting of such symp¬ 
toms as headache, shooting pains, giddiness, indistinctness 
of vision, sparks of various colors, humming noises, or loud 
reports, strong odors, sneezing, strange tastes, hoarseness, 
irritability, gloomy mood, spectral illusons, etc. But the 
most striking premonition is that called the aura epileptica, 
a sensation compared to a stream of warm or cold air, to 
the trickling of water, or to the creeping of an insect, which 
commences at the extremity of a limb, and gradually runs 
along the skin towards the head; or, occasionally, it gets 
no further than the pit of the stomach; and, as soon as it 
stops, the fit occurs. A knowledge of these circumstances 
is important, as, in some instances, time is afforded to inter¬ 
pose remedies that may avert the paroxysm, or at least to 
secure the patient’s safety during a fit. 

The Fit. —The patient utters a loud shriek or scream, 
and falls suddenly to the earth, convulsed and insensible 
The cry is peculiar and often terrifying, not only to man- 
kind, but also to the brute creation. The convulsive move¬ 
ments, especially of the head and neck, are often very 
extreme, one side being frequently more affected than the 
other; there is violent closure of the jaws; the tongue is 
liable to be bitten; a foam issues from the mouth, often 
colored by blood; the eyes quiver and roll about, or are 
fixed and staring; the hands are firmly clenched, and the 
thumbs bent inwards upon the palms; mine, etc., sometimes 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-DISEASES OF THE HEAD, ETC. 255 

escape involuntarily; the breathing is impeded by spasma 
of the larynx, and performed with a hissing sound; the 
cheeks and lips are of a deathly pallor; the veins of the 
neck and forohead are greatly distended, the heart acta 
tumultuously, and death seems inevitable. Gradually, how¬ 
ever, the symptoms remit, and the patient is left insensible 
and apparently in a sound sleep. A fit rarely lasts longer 
than from one to three minutes, although the painful na- 
ture of the spectacle makes it appear longer to a by¬ 
stander. 

Symptoms following a Fit. — Some few patients recover 
perfectly in a few minutes; some regain consciousness and 
then sink into profound sleep; but more frequently con¬ 
sciousness is not immediately recovered, the slumber suc¬ 
ceeding the struggles without any lucid interval. On 
emerging from the slumber, the patient may merely fee] 
languid and inert, or like a person stunned, or in a state 
bordering upon idiocy, unconscious of what has passed. 

The paroxysm may soon return again if the occasioning 
cause is still in action; but generally in chronic cases, at 
intervals varying from a few days to several weeks. Some¬ 
times patients have several fits in succession, and then 
escape them for several weeks. 

But few persons die in a fit, but they may be repeated so 
frequently as to induce a comatose state, from which the 
patient sinks. Long continuance of the disease rarely fail* 
to destroy control of the appetite and passions and to arrest 
the mental faculties, and idiocy; sometimes general para¬ 
lysis, more or less complete, is the result. 

When the disease commences before the age of puberty, 
it is more amenable to the proper treatment than after¬ 
wards, though even in the latter cases, homeopathic treat¬ 
ment is able to do very much by way of mitigating and 
prolonging the intervals between the convulsions, and in 
6iany instances to effect a cure. 


256 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


The most frequent exciting causes are: A hereditary de¬ 
rangement of the nervous system.—Hysteria, chronic 
alcoholism or syphilis in parents, physical and psychical 
prostration from any cause. The age at which the attacks 
most frequently commence is from the tenth to the 
twentieth year, when the important change of puberty 
takes place. The other most frequent period is from 
the second to the tenth year, during which the permanent 
teeth are cut. 

Fright, fits of rage, overstraining the mind; gastric dis¬ 
orders, the irritation of worms (especially tsenia), menstrual 
irregularity or suppression, repelled eruptions—especially 
those about the head—and the sight of other epileptics, are 
also exciting causes. 

Treatment.— During a fit the patient should receive only 
such attention as will prevent injury from the convulsive 
movements. Remove or loosen the cravat from the neck, 
and stays from the body, and prevent the limbs from being 
bruised, and if the tongue is liable to be lacerated, some¬ 
thing may be inserted between the teeth to prevent it. If 
the breathing is arrested for a dangerous period, by spasm 
of the respiratory muscles, cold water may be sprinkled in 
the face to return it. The body should be placed in a hori¬ 
zontal position and the head elevated. After the patient 
has come out of the fit, he should be allowed to rest quietly 
an hour or two until he awakes. 

The medical treatment consists in giving six pellets of 
the Number Thirty-five each morning, and the 
same of No. Thirty-Three each evening, which should 
be continued for several weeks or even months 

Persons sub^t to fits should be very particular in 
regard to diet. Eat only plain food, easy of digestion, 
and in great moderation. Stimulants should be entirely 
avoided. 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-—DISEASES OF THE HEAD, ETC. 25? 


CHOKEA .—(SL Vitus * Dance). 

This disease mostly affects children of nervous tempera¬ 
ment, between the ages of five and fifteen years, and is 
characterized by strange and unusual movements and jerk- 
ings of the limbs, or of single muscles. 

Generally, for some months previous to the full mani¬ 
festation of the disease, the child is troubled with constipa¬ 
tion, oppression of the stomach or chest, vertigo or head¬ 
ache, occasional flushes of fever at night, palpitation of the 
heart, nervousness and irritability of temper. Involuntary 
motions generally commence with grimaces or slight mo¬ 
tions or drawings of the face; these gradually become more 
decided and extend by degrees to the extremities, arms, 
hands or legs, and even to the entire body. When the 
limbs are affected, the gait becomes difficult, awkward or 
unsteady. The arms fail to obey the will, and then invo¬ 
luntary motions or gestures, and if the tongue becomes 
involved, the act of deglutition is impeded, and the speech 
becomes stammering or difficult. The involuntary motions 
are constant during the waking hours, and some cases are 
attended with difficult respiration, pain in the limbs, fre¬ 
quent micturition, confusion of ideas, and loss of memory. 

It is usually unattended with danger, and often subsides 
at the age of puberty, but it may also become permanent, 
tod be attended by perversion or permanent weakening of 
the mental powers. It has frequently been caused by re¬ 
pelled eruptions, such as tetter, scald-nead or itch, also 
from depressing emotions, fear, terror, or from mastur¬ 
bation, or the irritation of worms. Overtaxing the mental 
powers at school, and too long school hours are most fre¬ 
quent causes. 

Treatmen t. —The Number Thirty-Three and No. 
Thirty-Five will usually be found effectual. Give two 
to six pellets of the latter at night, and the same from the 


258 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


former eacli morning, and with the removal of the exciting 
cause, the health will gradually be restored. 

TETANUS.— (Lockjaw). 

A disease in which the percentage of fatalities is very 
large, and is caused by the introduction of the Bacillus 
Tetani into the system through an abrasion or injury. It is 
a case of soil contamination. The bacilli has been found in 
the intestines of the horse and other ruminant animals. It 
is also frequently found in the intestines of man, and 
especially among ostlers and stablemen. It thrives best in 
rich, well manured earth, hence, in the older, long settled 
countries, the danger of wounds becoming infected is much 
greater. This has been shown to be the case in the present 
war of the Allies. It being a trench war the wounds 
become caked with mud and dirt and so infected, the 
bacilli, obtaining entrance through wounds, travel through 
the terminals and nerves and thence through the main 
trunk to the spinal cord and nerve centers, where by the 
toxins they secrete, produce symptoms so characteristic of 
this disease. The more prominent symptoms of tetanus, 
hydrophobia and poisoning by strychnine are so much alike 
that it is often difficult to diagnose the case unless the 
clinical history of the patient is known. 

In some cases it commences suddenly and with great 
violence, but it more frequently begins by degrees; com¬ 
mencing with slight stiffness in the back part of the neck, 
and an uneasy sensation at the root of the tongue, which 
gradually increases, attended with difficulty of swallowing, 
oppressive tightness of the chest, and pain under the breast 
bone extending to the back; the countenance becomes pale; 
pulse small; urine high colored, and bowels constipated. 
The lower jaw becomes immovable and tightly clenched, so 
that at times the slightest particle cannot be inserted be¬ 
tween them, hence the name lockjaw arises. In some cases 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DISEASES OF THE HEAD, ETC. 259 


the spasm is confined to the jaws, but in others they extend 
with increasing frequency to the arms, legs, and even the 
entire body, bending it backwards, forwards, or to either 
side. In the worst cases, the tetanus becomes general, the 
eyes fixed and immovable, and the countenance distorted 
with an expression of anguish, the breathing loud and sobb¬ 
ing; the body and limbs fixed, or with frequently occurring 
spasms, drawn in different directions, until nature becomes 
exhausted and succumbs at about the fourth day in a con¬ 
tinued general spasm. Sometimes, during the remission of 
spasms, they are renewed by the patient moving speaking, 
or taking food or drink. The mind remains clear to the last. 

Treatment.— After wounds or injuries, especially lacer¬ 
ation or punctures with rough instruments, spikes, nails, 
etc., in the hands or feet, great care should be taken to sub¬ 
due the irritation and inflammatory action, and to have the 
wound heal kindly. First, wash the wound thoroughly with 
Hydrogen Peroxide, then cauterize with carbolic acid, dress 
and keep moist with Humphreys* Marvel Witch Hazel. All 
cases where practicable, Tetanus Anti-toxin serum should 
be administered. 

Should symptoms of lockjaw appear, give at once the 
Number Thirty-three and No. Thirty-five im 
alternation every hour, a dose of two pellets dissolved in 
water, and continue these without intermission until the 
spasm has entirely ceased. 

When, from the constant clenching of the jaws, it is dif¬ 
ficult to administer the medicine in the common method, let 
the pellets be dissolved in only a few drops of water, and be 
drawn in with the breath, or even be put in between the lips. 

NEUKALGIA. -(Nerve-Pain). 

This is a comparatively modern and very common as well 
as painful affection. As the name indicates, it is simply 
pain in nerve, and hence it may exist in any part of the 


HOMEOPATHIC mentoh. 


26'U 

body. It is very common in tlie face, (prosopalgia), the 
pain frequently extending from just before the ear, along 
under and up over the eye. or it may descend along the 
face and lower jaw of that side to the center of the face; or 
it may extend to and along the root of the teeth. The pain 
is violent, sharp or rending, tearing or lancinating, often 
coming with paroxysms of increase and remission, and often 
very regularly better or worse at certain periods of the day 
or night. Sometimes the entire head or side are involved, 
and the patient can scarcely describe his symptoms. The 
pain is not increased, but generally diminished by pressure 
an the affected part, in distinction from pain of an inflam¬ 
matory or rheumatic character, where pressure increases 
the pain. 

The duration of Neuralgia is very uncertain; an attack 
may pass off after a few paroxysms, or it may persist for 
many days or months, with a well-marked, or irregular, im 
termittent, or remittent character. 

The hair sometimes undergoes remarkable changes under 
the influence of Neuralgia. Dr. Anstie noted greyness of 
hair on the same side in eleven instances out of twenty: 
in four of these cases there was greyness of part of the eye¬ 
brow on the affected side. The same observer has also 
/xoted fluctuation of the color, the greyness actually in¬ 
creasing during, and for some time after, an acute pa¬ 
roxysm, the hair subsequently returning more or less to its 
natural color. 

The Causes may be hereditary , constitutional, or local. 
Neuralgia is distinctly hereditary , occurring in particular 
families, and in successive generations. It is well known, 
also, that such neuralgic families are liable to the more pro¬ 
found derangements of the nervous system—Paralysis, Epi¬ 
lepsy, Hypochondriasis, and even softening of the brain 
and Insanity—indicating some congenital imperfections in 
the formation of the nerve-cells and fibres. This seems to 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-DISEASES OF THE HEAD, ETC. 261 

be proved by the fact that, though a precisely similar acci¬ 
dent occur to a hundred persons, not more than two or three 
will experience any Neuralgia; and these will probably be 
found to belong to a neuralgic family. 

Constitutional causes are—Impairment of the general 
health; depressing influences , whether mental or physical, as 
night-watching, sleeplessness, anxiety, insufficient nourish¬ 
ment, or violent exertion; haemorrhage and consequent de¬ 
bility; affections of the alimentary or urinary organs; ex¬ 
posure to wet and cold—to strong and cold winds , which are 
frequent causes of irritation to the animal nervous system; 
a gouty, rheumatic, or syphilitic taint; decay or loss of 
teeth; malaria; and, lastly, organic degeneration at the de¬ 
cline of life, which is the most severe and intractable form 
presented to the physician. The great majority of patients 
is found among the hard-working, the poor, and the badly- 
nourished classes; men suffering less frequently than women. 
The cause of this, that men are better protected, both na¬ 
turally and artificially, from the effects of exposure, and that 
women are tempted to indulge in brief exposures in the 
open air from warm rooms without any suitable covering 
to the head, or any protection to the face. The face of 
man, on the contrary, is covered by a beard which shields 
him from injury by exposure. He also spends less time in 
the relaxing atmosphere of heated rooms, and enjoys to a 
greater extent the bracing effects of out-of-door exercise. 

Local causes may be—wounds; lodgment of a foreign body 
in the substance of a nerve-trunk; gun-shot wounds, or 
other injuries; tumors, especially Cancer; minute frag¬ 
ments of bone pressing on the nerve (an occasional cause of 
facial Neuralgia); carious teeth or stumps. Even Neuralgia 
from injury is aggravated by any impairment of the con¬ 
stitutional vigour. 

Treatment.—T he Number Eight will usually be 
found sufficient, and may be given in portions of six pellets 


262 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


dry on the tongue, and repeated every one or two hours* 
according to circumstances. 

In cases of chronic neuralgia, the No. Thirty-five may 
be given in alternation with the No. Eight, and six pellets 
of each be given twice per day, making four doses in all. 

Sometimes, in very violent attacks, attended with fever, 
red face, or heat, of the head, the No. One may be efficient, 
dissolved in water, twelve pellets in six spoonfuls and a 
spoonful given every hour. The use of the above named 
remedies will usually be found effective, even in the 
severest cases. 


TOOTHACHE. 

Toothache is an affection so well known as to require no 
description. The pain is usually found in connection 
with decayed teeth, but sometimes also in sound ones. 
When badly decayed teeth begin to ache, it may be best 
to have them extracted. Yet, even here, the proper treat¬ 
ment will often entirely allay the pain, and the teeth may 
do good service for many years afterwards. But when pain 
affects sound teeth, we should rarely submit to have them 
taken out, until we have exhausted every means to relieve 
them without this alternative. A most insane practice it is, 
whenever we have a toothache, which may be occasioned 
from a cold and will hence soon pass off, or from a bad 
state of the stomach, or by fever, or from mental and phy¬ 
sical excitement, or from drinking coffee, or pregnancy—all 
transient conditions—to rush to the doctor or dentist and 
lose a tooth—a loss which can never be repaired. Under 
such circumstances, if we will exercise a little patience, a 
little discretion and judgment, we may allay the pain, re¬ 
move the exciting cause and save the tooth as well as the 
suffering of its extraction. 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-DISEASES OF THE HEAD, ETC. 263 

Treatment.— Take first six pellets of the No. Eight 
and repeat them every hour if needful. If not re¬ 
lieved,' dissolve twelve pellets in a glass half full of water; 
also prepare the No. One in the same manner and take 
them alternately every hour, or every two hours, until 
relieved. Sometimes the No. Fifteen is very efficient, 
especially in rheumatic subjects, or when the pains appear 
to have a rheumatic origin, and in other cases the No. Ten 
is equally so. 

When the toothache does not seem to yield, and especially 
in children who are fretful and impatient, relief may be 
obtained by bathing the face on the affected side freely 
with Humphreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel and holding some of it 
in the mouth on that side. If the tooth is hollow, wet a little 
pledget of lint with the same, and press it into the cavity 
of the tooth. Even better than bathing the face in the 
same, is wetting a thin cloth or handkerchief with the same, 
and wrapping it over the affected parts of the face or jaw 
with a handkerchief. 

It is a bad practice in toothache, to hold camphor spirits 
or other stimulants in the mouth, or to apply creosote, lau¬ 
danum, oil of cloves, etc., to the teeth. These more fre¬ 
quently irritate than relieve—excite and irritate the entire 
mouth and gums, and do more harm than good. Let the 
diet be light if the stomach is deranged; if there is a cold, 
cure that, and you will soon find relief, and save your teeth. 
If relieved an hour or so after taking the remedies, take no 
more; if it returns, try another dose, and even repeat it 
after one hour or two. 

Means of Preservation. —The function of the teeth is so 
important, that their preservation is a matter of the highest 
moment. The first teeth determine the nature of the 
second set, and persons suffer lamentably from early neg¬ 
lect. Proximate decay migrht be nrevented, in five *feea 


264 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


out of ten, by simply passing a thread between an infant’s 
teeth, twice a week, from the time of their eruption. Pro¬ 
fessional inspection should also be sought before symptoms 
of decay present themselves, and while there is still hope 
that the dentist may fulfill what should be regarded as his 
mission, that of saving the teeth. Cleanliness, with respect 
to the teeth, is all-important for infants and children, as 
well as adults. The teeth should be kept clean by rinsing 
the mouth with pure cold water, and brushing the teeth 
with a moderately soft brush every morning; and, if possible, 
after every meal, especially when animal food has been 
taken; and contact with all disorganising agents avoided. 
The idea that frequent brushing the teeth is liable to 
lacerate the gums and separate them from the teeth is 
erroneous, for it is one of the best methods of restoring 
them to a healthy condition when they are spongy and 
liable to bleed. But when a tendency to decay of the teeth oi 
inflammatory action of the gums exists, the use of No. Eight 
and of Humphreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel at morning and 
night, as a wash, will be effectual. The habit of taking very hot 
substances into the mouth should be avoided, as the expan¬ 
sive power of heat may rupture the enamel, which in turn 
becomes the nucleus of decay. On the other hand, the 
habit of subjecting the teeth to the opposite extreme of 
temperature, as by sucking ice, etc., is also to be avoided. 
Chewing or smoking tobacco, and the habitual use of strong 
drinks, tend to destroy the teeth. Lastly, as an important 
means of preserving the teeth, the general health should be 
maintained in the highest state of integrity, by the use of 
plain, nourishing food, cold sponging or bathing, and early 
and regular habits. 


SWELLED FACE. 

Not unfrequently, and often as the sequel of toothache, 
the face, more especially on one side, becomes swelled or 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT —DISEASES OF THE HEAD, ETC. 265 

puffed out sometimes to an extreme degree. The entire 
tissue of the cheek and sometimes the face, becomes 
thickened and swelled so as to distort the countenance, and 
render deglutition or even opening the mouth difficult or 
painful. The swelling may be red and hot with heat, and 
some degree of fever or even erysipelas, or it may be pale 
or. hard. 

It is not a very dangerous affair, but sufficiently dis¬ 
agreeable and unpleasant to require attention, and more 
especially so when it assumes the graver forms. 

Treatment. —If the swelling is red or hot, or both, with 
some fever, the No. One is the remedy, and may be given 
in doses of two pellets dissolved in water, and repeated 
every hour. If the swelling is firm or hard, alternate 
No. Fifteen in like manner with No. One; or No. Eight, 
if caused by toothache. 

~ In painful swelling of the face, the application of a 
cloth wet with the Humphreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel 
will relieve both the pain and swelling. 


CROUP. 

Under the common designation Croup there are conn 
prised two distinct diseases known as Spasmodic Croup and 
Membranous Croup , or Diphtheria of the Larynx . 

While these two diseases have many symptoms in 
common, in their course or origin, in their progress and 
in their termination, they are essentially different. It is 
well to bear in mind the characteristic symptoms of these 
two affections, that they may be early recognized and 
prompt measures be taken to safeguard the life of th* 
child. 


266 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


Spasmodic Croup is a purely nervous condition causing 
spasms of the muscles of the larynx. It is non-infectious 
While the symptoms are very alarming to the parents, i! 
is rarely attended with serious effects to the child. The 
attack comes on suddenly, the child going to bed well. 
After midnight or towards morning awakens with a loud 
croupy cough, hoarse or harking, which once heard is 
never to be forgotten, and such as to send a chill to the 
mother’s heart. Breathing often becomes difficult, with 
distress and congested face. There is little or no fever. 
After awhile the child begins to breathe freer, the cough 
subsides, and the child awakens in the morning as well 
as ever with the possibilities of a recurrence of the attack 
on the following night or for several successive nights. 
The cause of these attacks is supposed to be exposure to 
cold and damp. However, this fact has not been well 
established. 

Treatment. —For an attack with hoarse, croupy cough, 
either suddenly at night or at other times, dissolve at 
once twelve pellets of No. Thirteen in six dessert-spoon¬ 
fuls of pure water, of which give a spoonful every half 
hour, at first, and until the child improves. 

Membranous Croup , or as it should be rightly termed. 
Diphtheria of the Larynx , is a slow, insidious and highly 
infectious disease. It often fails to alarm the parents of 
the child until it is far advanced. 

The attack usually comes on at night with a croupy 
cough. There is usually some fever and congestion 
of the face, and some difficulty in breathing. The cough 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DISEASES OF THE HEAD, ETC. 267 

is not as croupy nor as noisy as in Spasmodic Croup, nor 
are the symptoms alarming to the parents. Towards 
morning and during the day the child may appear much 
better. Again at night the fever and difficulty and distress 
in breathing reappear, the larynx appears to be filling up, 
the inspiration of air is short and jerky, the expiration is 
slow and long, accompanied by a whistling sound. As 
the false membrane is deposited in the air passages the 
symptoms of suffocation are manifested. Constitutional 
effects of the absorbed toxins' appear, and the patient un¬ 
less speedily relieved soon succumbs to the dread disease. 

Treatment. —Antidiphtheria serum should be admin¬ 
istered to the patient as soon as the disease is recognized, 
and the treatment should follow that prescribed for 
diphtheria. (See page 21.) 


HYSTERIA. 

Is a disturbance of the nervous system characterized by 
a perversion of the sensations, and generally (though not 
exclusively) confined to females, between puberty and 
the change of life. 

Formerly Hysteria was thought to be directly due to 
disorders of the womb; but this is incorrect, for it exists in 
women in whom all the functions of the womb are healthily 
performed, and even in women born without a womb; it 
is also occasionally met with in the male sex; men of 
exalted sensibility, under the influence of some powerful 


268 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


emotion, coupled perhaps with excessive bodily fatigue, 
break down under their feelings and play the part oi 
women. We “look to see what organ is diseased, but find 
none; the machinery is good, but it is working irregularly; 
it is the engine with the fly-wheel gone.” 

Symptoms. —Hysteria is remarkable for the wide range 
and indistinctive character of symptoms, and the many di¬ 
seases it may mimic; especially, loss of voice, stricture of 
the oesophagus; Laryngitis, a barking cough (more annoy¬ 
ing to the hearer than to the patient), Pleurisy, heart di¬ 
sease, difficulty in urinating, Neuralgia, disease of the spine 
or joints, and many inflammatory diseases. In these cases 
the patient deceives herself, and by extreme statements of 
her sufferings often misleads others. In some cases there 
ma} r co-exist with Hysteria, indigestion, a more or less de¬ 
finite affection of the head, chest, or abdomen, or other 
condition of impaired health or constitutional delicacy. 

The hysteric Fits .—The patient screams or makes an in¬ 
coherent noise, appears to lose all voluntary power and 
consciousness, and falls to the ground. On closely watching 
a case, however, it will be noticed that there is not absolute 
loss of consciousness: the patient contrives to fall so as not 
to injure herself or dress; an attack does not occur when 
she is asleep or alone; the countenance is not distorted, as 
in Epilepsy; the eyelids may quiver and the eyes be turned 
up, but the eyes are not wide open, nor the pupils dilated, 
as in Epilepsy, and the patient may be observed to see and 
to look; the breathing is noisy and irregular, but there is 
not such absolute arrest of breathing as to cause asphyxia; 
the fit continues for an indefinite period, followed by great 
apparent exhaustion, but not by real stupor. 

Treatment.— The predisposition should be overcome by 
correcting any unhealthy or unusual condition of the men* 
Btrual function, if such exist. For an ordinary attack, the 
Number Three, six nellets every half hour or hour. 


DISEASE AND TKEATMENT.-DISEASES OP THE HEAD, ETC. 269 

will generally suffice. If connected with scanty menstrua¬ 
tion, administer the No. Eleven in the same manner. If 
there are attacks of cramps simulating, or actual convulsions, 
administer the No. Thirty-three, six pellets every hour 
until relieved. 


HYPOCHONDRIASIS. 

Is a functional disorder of the nervous system, attended 
with exaggerated ideas or depressed feelings, but without 
actual disorder of the intellect. 

Symptoms.— The patient imagines himself, without suffi¬ 
cient ground, the subject of some serious disease, and is 
often haunted with the dread of insanity or of death. Fre¬ 
quently, at first, the patient considers himself dyspeptic 
from the fact that he is troubled with flatulence, has a 
furred tongue, foul breath, irregular appetite, and generally 
obstinate constipation. After a time he complains of a 
gnawing or burning pain, of uneasiness at the pit of the 
stomach, or of more serious disease. He has great hope of 
getting rid of his malady, and strong faith, notwithstanding 
repeated failures, in treatment. Afterwards, from attention 
being directed to particular organs, functional disturbances 
arise,—flushes, palpitation, suppression of bile, or bilious 
diarrhoea; symptoms which tend to confirm the belief that 
organic disease exists. 

Causes. —Hereditary influences are potent and common: 
a taint of insanity, or other grave nervous disease, may be 
generally traced in near or remote ancestors. The deve¬ 
lopment of the disease is usually in connection with the 
conditions of middle life, especially indolence and luxury; 
or, on the other hand, with anxiety and conscious failure in 
efforts to provide for relations and dependents. Severe 
shocks of a moral or emotional nature may give rise to the 
xnalady. The patient’s complaints may, however, be not 


270 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


merely fanciful, but due to actual disease. Organic diseases 
of the liver or stomach are especially likely to evoke the 
symptoms of Hypochondriasis, or they may arise, or be ex¬ 
cited into new action, by a concurrent morbid process- 
The statements and symptoms of a hypochondriac should 
therefore be carefully examined. It is often said that 
reading medical books frightens persons into the disease. 
This cause must, however, be very limited and trifling com¬ 
pared with the more potent and general operation of such 
influences as grief, fatigue, the failure of efforts, or the 
miserable and heart-wearing habits of an idle life . 

Treatment. —In general the use of No. Ten and No. 
Twenty-eight is the proper course, giving the No. Ten 
each morning and the No. Twenty-eight at night. This 
may be continued for weeks or months, or it may be 
omitted for a week and then resumed. Should there be 
sleeplessness, No. Forty may be taken, one or more doses 
at night, in place of No. Twenty-eight, and the use of 
any other remedies may be invoked for any passing ailment 
or disease. 

Accessory Means. —The weary mind should be relieved, 
and vigor of body and cheerfulness of spirits secured by a 
course of out-of-door exercises, physical training, bathing 
and suitable dietetic arrangements. Horse-exercise is par¬ 
ticularly advantageous. Exercise should be employed in 
such a manner as may be amusing to the patient, and to 
the extent of the healthy action of the muscles, but never 
sufficient to produce severe fatigue. If Indigestion exist, 
the article on that subject should be consulted. Hypochom 
driasis from sexual vices requires the aid of a physician. 



DISEASES OF THE EYES. 


The eye, from its importance and delicate nature should 
Jaim our most careful attention when it is the subject of 
disease. We should, at all times, be careful not to apply 
salves, ointments or irritating washes; but to treat this or¬ 
gan with the utmost caution and tenderness, only applying 
those substances herein recommended, trusting mainly to 
the action of the remedies given internally. Nor should 
we be hasty in intrusting them to the care of incompetent, 
ignorant, or ill-advised pretenders. 

It should be recollected that in all cases of diseased or 
sore eyes, though the affection seems to be local, yet the 
whole system is more or less in sympathy with it; and often 
the local affection is only the expression of a general morbid 
condition of the system. Thus it is that scrofula, gout, 
rheumatism, catarrh, or syphilis, may each locate them¬ 
selves upon the eyes, producing their peculiar forms of in¬ 
flammation or disease, and hence in the process of cure, 
those remedies appropriate to these conditions should be 
employed in connection with those for the local disease. 

SIMPLE OPHTHALMIA—INFLAMMATION OF THE 

EYE.—( Conjunctivitis). 

The attack often commences with itching, or a feeling as 
if sand 01 dust had got into the eye, the eyeball and inside 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


m 

or the lid become reddened, and the vessels distributed 
over the eye infected, carrying red blood. The eyes be¬ 
come irritated, intolerant of light and painful, with flow o? 
hot scalding tears. In some forms, where the inflamma¬ 
tion runs high or continues long, ulcers or small specks arc 
apt to form upon the cornea or ball of the eye. 

Causes. —Exposure of eye to dust, smoke, impure air, 
cold winds, too bright light, strain of eye, etc. 

Treatment. —For the first twenty-four or forty-eight 
hours, give the No. One and No. Eighteen in alternation, 
a dose every three hours. Prepare the medicine by dis¬ 
solving twelve pellets of each in six spoonfuls of water in 
separate glasses, and administer from the two in alterna¬ 
tion. After two days omit the No. One, and instead use 
the No. Thirty-five in like manner, in alternation with 
No. Eighteen. As the inflammation subsides and the 
eye improves, the medicine may be taken less frequently 
and the medicine may be taken dry, two pellets at a time, 
instead of in fluid form. 

Let the eye be shaded from light if it is oppressive, and 
avoid fading, writing or taxing the eye in any manner, 
and live on very light, easily digested food. 

For an application, use the Humphreys’ Marvel Witch 
Hazel, diluted with an equal quantity of pure, soft water, 
and with this bathe the eye; and at night wet a fine linen 
rag with it and lay over the eye, renewing from time to 
time as it gets hot or dry. If the same cannot be procured, 
dissolve six pellets of No. Eighteen in half a teacupful of 
soft water, and use in like manner. 

In cases where scrofula or rheumatism are clearly con¬ 
nected with the disease as a cause, it may be advisable, 
to alternate the remedies for those diseases, No. Twenty- 
three or No. Fifteen, with that for Ophthalmia, No- 
Eighteen. 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-DISEASES OF THE EYES. 273 


CHRONIC OPHTHALMIA. 

Inflammations of the eyes are often met with of many 
months, and even years standing. They are sometimes 
better for a season and then worse again, and generally 
have their origin in some constitutional taint of the system, 
such as gout or scrofula, or they may arise from the virus 
of syphilis or gonorrhoea. The eyeball is generally red¬ 
dened, blood-vessels injected, lids thickened, red and 
swelled; intolerance of light, and discharge of thick or 
purulent matter, or of hot, scalding water, when the irrita¬ 
tion has been kindled up afresh. Ulcers, or the remains of 
old ulcers, are not unfrequently met with. 

Treatment.— These old cases, which are often met with 
in bad, unhealthy or neglected subjects, only require care 
and patience in their treatment. Under good management, 
wonders can be effected in restoring these organs to sight 
and usefulness. Give at first, the No. Eighteen and No. 
Thirty-five, six pellets at a time and four times per day 
in alternation. Continue this course a week or two weeks, 
or as long as the eyes continue to improve. If, after a 
time, the secretion is thick, gummy or abundant, omit the 
No. Thirty-five and use the No. Twenty-three instead, 
asad so continue for one or two weeks, returning again to 
file former medicine. 

Accessory Means. —Exposure to currents of cold and damp 
air should be avoided, and if the weather is inclement 
during an attack, the patient should remain in a room of 
uniform temperature. A piece of lint, wet with in tepid or 
cold water, as may be most agreeable to the patient, should 
be laid over the eye, and covered with oil-silk, on retiring. 

If the lids are gummed together in the morning, they 
should on no account be opened without being first moist¬ 
ened with tepid water or saliva; but any gumming together 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


m 

jnay be prevented by smearing the lids at niglit with a little 
cold-cream or olive-oil, or by covering them with moist lint 
and oil-silk, as just recommended. As long as the eyes 
remain sensitive, they may be protected by plain blue or 
smoke-colored glasses; they should be used with extreme 
moderation; crowded rooms, or air poisoned by tobacco- 
smoke or other impurities, should be avoided. The food 
should be simple, nourishing, and digestible. 

Preventive Means. —Persons predisposed to Ophthalmia 
should guard against all needless exposures during the pre¬ 
valence of easterly and north-easterly winds. In reading, 
writing, or when using the eyes on fine work, the morning 
hours should be chosen, when the light is growing brighter. 
The habits should, therefore, be early and regular; the 
beneficial influence of out-of-door air should be regularly 
taken advantage of; and bathing practised. 

The Diet may be more generous than in acute ophthalmia, 
but still should be free from stimulants of any kind. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE EYELIDS. 

Not unfrequently the eyelid becomes inflamed, red, 
swelled and painful, especially along the margin of the lid, 
while the eyeball seems but slightly affected. In some cases 
the frequent recurrence or persistence of this affection, 
causes the thickening of the margin of the lid, and the per¬ 
manent loss of the eyelashes. 

Treatment. —The Number Eleven and No. Eigh¬ 
teen are the appropriate medicines, and may be administ¬ 
ered two or four times per day according to the urgency of 
the case, as directed for acute ophthalmia. 

HORDEOLUM.— (Sty). 

This is a small, hard, generally inflamed tumor, seated on 
the margin of the lid, commencing as a small, painful lump. 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DISEASES OP THE EYES. 275 

becoming inflamed, swelled, red, and finally softening. 
In some cases a tumor like a small wen appears in the 
same locality, and remains without suppurating or dis¬ 
charging. 

Treatment —It will be speedily removed by the use of 
the No. Eighteen and No. Eleven in alternation. A 
dose of six pellets may be given every two or three hours 
at first; then morning and night is sufficient. Small, 
indolent tumors or wens may require the use of No. 
Eighteen and No. Thirty-five, given six pellets night 
and morning. Bathe the eyes and lay a cold compress 
over the eyes with Humphreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel, 
diluted one-half with water. 

BLOOD-SHOT EYES. 

Sometimes from severe or violent coughing, blows, falls, 
retching, vomiting or crying, the eye or a portion of it be¬ 
comes suffused with blood, or “blood-shot” as it is 
termed. It generally passes off itself by being absorbed, 
when the occasioning cause has ceased to act. A few doses 
of No. Thirty-five, given two or three times per day, 
will hasten the removal of the extravasation. Frequent 
bathing with the Humphreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel may 
also hasten the absorption. 

WATERY, WEEPING EYES. 

When this is the result of the closure or obliteration of 
the tear-duct, medicine will not avail. But when it arises 
from weakness or over sensibility of the organ, or a partial 
closure of the duct from inflammatory thickening of the 
surrounding tissue, or from the secretion itself being thick¬ 
ened, it is quite within the reach of medical treatment. 

Administer in such cases the No. Eighteen, six pellets 
three times per day. If a catarrhal condition at the same 
time exists, interpose an occasional dose of six pellets of 
No. Nineteen. Bathe the eyes with Humphreys’ Marvel 
Witch Hazel, diluted one-half with water. 


276 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


STRABISMUS.— (Squinting). 

A condition in which the axis of one eye is not parallel 
with that of the other; there is loss of harmonious move¬ 
ment of the eyes, and if the unaffected eye be closed, the 
squinting one looks straight. 

The Causes are occasionally obscure. Sometimes the 
disorder arises from an unequal use of the eyes, as from 
imitating others who squint, looking at spots on the nose or 
face, or forming the habit of turning the eye inward; some¬ 
times as a consequence of Scarlatina or Measles; from irri¬ 
tation, as of worms, teething, indigestible food; from 
passion; from disease of the brain; and from general ill- 
health. When it occurs in the course of any disease of the 
brain it must be regarded as an unfavorable symptom. 
Sometimes it is congenital. In aged persons, the condition 
is due to partial Paralysis of the inner muscle of the eye. 

This affection, in its more serious form, can only be 
reached by a surgical operation. But in some cases of 
comparatively recent origin in young children, it may be 
corrected by the use of the Number Thirty-five, 
two pellets given morning and night. 

WEAK, OR FAILING SIGHT. 

In many cases, the sight fails or becomes obscured or 
feeble before that period of life when it may naturally be 
expected. Sometimes, there is a mist or ganze before the 
eyes, or there are black points, spots or clouds hovering 
before the sight; or the eyes become dim, watery, or the 
sight misty on endeavoring to sew, read or use fine print 
These conditions indicate weakness of these organs, or a 
morbid condition of them, and it may be but the reflec¬ 
tion of the general condition of the system. 

Caused—E xcessive use of the eyes on too bright or too 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT-—-DISEASES OF THE EYES. 277 

minute objects; too much sleep; the use of tobacco or sti¬ 
mulants; suppressed exhalations from the skin from ex¬ 
posure to cold and wet; suppressed period, etc. These and 
similar causes may lead to temporary congestion of the 
brain, and over-stimulate and exhaust the retina, causing 
dimness or entire suspension of vision, without permanently 
damaging the nervous structure of the eye. On the other 
hand, an anaemic condition of the system may diminish the 
supply of healthy blood to the brain and retina, and pro¬ 
duce Amblyopia by exhaustion. Excessive drains on the 
system, as from flooding in child-bed or at the monthly 
period, prolonged nursing, sexual excesses, or severe ill¬ 
ness. A similar condition may be induced by chronic 
Dyspepsia from functional or organic disease of the stomach 
or liver. These affections may cause impairment of vision, 
through the medium of the sympathetic system, by dimin¬ 
ishing the nervous and vascular supplies required for the 
healthy functions of the eye. Dental causes may be in 
operation, rendering the extraction of a tooth necessary. 

Tkeatment. —Take six pellets of the Number Thirty- 
Five each morning, and the same of No. Eighteen every 
night on retiring. Also, frequently bathe the eyes with 
cold water, avoid fatiguing or straining the eyes with fine 
work, reading fine print, or any long continued effort of 
the eyes, and also the use of glasses, which fatigue or weary 
the eyes. In all cases, avoid fatiguing or taxing the eyes 
when the body is weak and enfeebled from sickness. 

ADDITIONAL SUGGESTIONS ON THE PRESERVE 
TION OF THE SIGHT. 

1. Conditions of Light favorable to the Eyes.— Daylight t 
owing to its mildness, uniformity, and steadiness. The 
most perfect artificial light is but an imperfect substitute 
for the clear light of day; being often too powerful or too 


278 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


feeble, or flickering or wavering; or tlie air is often inja« 
riously heated, and deteriorated by the combustion of its 
oxygen. To enjoy daylight to its fullest extent, involves 
early rising. Morning light is also specially adapted to per¬ 
sons having weakness of vision, as the light is then in¬ 
creasing. If necessary that work should be done by arti¬ 
ficial light, that kind should be selected which requires 
least exertion, as writing rather than reading for the stu¬ 
dent, and sewing lighter and coarser work instead of fine 
and dark-colored for the seamstress. 

2. Unfavorable Conditions for exerting the Eyes.— The 
eyes should not be exercised directly after a full meal; when 
the body is fatigued; late at night, when sleepy; when in 
a recumbent or stooping posture; when travelling; when 
dressed in tight clothing—tight cravats, stays, or even tight 
garters or boots; in badly-ventilated rooms lighted by gas; 
during recovery from severe or exhausting disease. 

Light must not be too strong; a weak light is equally in¬ 
jurious; and if the eyes are used when the light is declin¬ 
ing, so that it becomes necessary to hold the book or work 
nearer in order to see, the sight must inevitably suffer. An 
unsteady light, as from imperfect gas; or using the eyes 
when the waves of light are moving about, as under a tree, 
or when riding, is highly detrimental, as the eyes are se¬ 
verely exercised in continually readjusting themselves; if 
persisted in, the sight will suffer, and Amblyopia or Amau¬ 
rosis possibly ensue. The danger to the sight is very great 
during convalescence from prolonged exhausting disease, 
when patients are apt to read a great deal; to the weakness 
of vision is then often added that of a bad posture, such as 
the recumbent, or even artificial light, rendering such a 
Use of the eyes extremely prejudicial. Convalescents should 
be read to, and the matter should be interesting and amus¬ 
ing. The reading of a novel is more hurtful to the sight 
than that of a scientific book, because it is read faster, and 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-DISEASES OF THE EYES. 279 


the eyes are more severely exercised. A broad page is 
more fatiguing to the eyes than a narrow one. On the eyes 
becoming dim after too long exertion they should rest, and 
on no account attempt to persist in reading by increasing 
the light. 

Eye-shade. —An eye-shade or eye-protector, of brown or 
slate-colored paper, covered with green or gray silk, and 
secured by a tape or piece of elastic, answers well for pro¬ 
tecting the eyes from gas, etc., indoors; out-of-doors, a 
wide-brimmed hat answers admirably. An eye-shade 
should be worn when there is unnatural sensibility to light. 

Spectacles. —Spectacles of plain blue glass are useful foi 
morbid sensibility of the eyes to light, and may be darker 
or lighter in shade, according to the amount of protection 
required; or brown or smoke-colored glasses may be used 
if preferred. The latter cut off the rays of light, and con¬ 
sequently render vision somewhat less distinct, while blue 
glasses, excluding the orange rays only, interfere less with 
the clear definition of objects. Green glasses protect the 
eyes from the red rays; but it is the orange rays which are 
most intolerable to a sensitive retina. Strong plate-glass 
spectacles should be worn by persons finding it necessary 
to protect the eyes against chips and particles of stone or 
steel (Angell). 

In all measures adopted for the general protection of the 
fejye, good ventilation and a healthy temperature must not 
be forgotten. 

Eye-Douche. —Much benefit often results from a cold 
douche-bath, a stream of water being directed on the closed 
eye and adjacent parts. Surgical-instrument makers sell 
instruments specially adapted for this purpose. Or, water 
may be thrown by the hand against the closed eyes when 
holding the face over a basin of water. 

Accessory Measures. —The causes of the disease should be 
correctly ascertained, and as far as possible, be removed 


280 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


and guarded against. Patients in crowded and unhealthy 
towns should remove to the country, at least for a time, 
where they may take daily out-of-door exercise, and enjoy 
a pure, bracing air. Frequent careful tepid washing of the 
eyes to prevent accumulations of matter; a spacious welh 
ventilated apartment; and avoidance of all causes likely to 
keep up the inflammatory process, are all necessary pre¬ 
cautions. The food should be plain and nourishing, coffee 
and fermented drinks being excluded; the habits early and 
regular, and frequent bathing should be practised. A small 
wet compress , covered with oil-silk or india-rubber, worn 
over the nape of the neck, is a valuable counter-irritant 
when the more violent inflammatory symptoms have been 
subdued; it is also useful in obstinate cases. 

Humphreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel diluted one-half 
with water will be found beneficial in most cases. 



Affections of the Ears and Hearing, 


ECZEMA. 

The cutaneous affections to which the external ear is liable 
are, chiefly, Herpes, Erysipelas, Impetigo, Pemphigus, and 
Eczema. The last is probably the most common, and is 
generally of the chronic variety. It appears most commonly 
behind the ears, but also invades the auricle, or external 
ear, and not unfrequently extends to the meatus, the open¬ 
ing or canal into the ear. When this extension takes place 
there is some degree of deafness, in addition to the great 
smarting and itching which characterise the disorder. The 
general causes and symptoms and treatment, are similar to 
those of Eczema when it occurs in other parts of the body. 

Treatment.— Give No. Fourteen each morning and 
of No. Twenty-two each night for old cases of moderate 
extent and severity; a dose of three pellets for children or 
six pellets for adults. In acute or severe cases give the 
Remedies four times per day. 

Accessory Treatment. —This consists chiefly in dusting 
the part with flour or finely-powdered starch, to soothe irrit¬ 
ability, and to absorb any fluid that may exude. A warm 
douche may be used occasionally, when the canal is invol¬ 
ved, to allay itching, and to prevent the accumulation of 
matter within. Great care should always be exercised to 
dry the ears of children, after being washed. 


282 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOS. 


EARACHE—INFLAMMATION OF THE EAR. 

Earache may have a neuralgic or rheumatic origin, or 
even from a toothache, and is very common in children. 
It is often brought on from exposure to cold, rough or 
damp weather. The pain is usually severe, sharp, lancinat¬ 
ing or beating, extending deep into the ear, causing great 
suffering. In very young children it occasions great un¬ 
easiness, cries, and rolling of the head. When the ear be¬ 
comes inflamed, the brain may become implicated from the 
extension of the disease, and delirium or convulsions with 
vomiting and cold extremities may be the result. In many 
instances, when young children have been crying, fretful 
and peevish lor several days, a discharge from the ear first 
informs the nurse that an inflammation of the ear has been 
the cause of all the suffering. 

Treatment.— The principal Remedies are the No. One 
and No. Twenty-two. Give first the No. One, two 
pellets every hour, either dry or dissolved in a spoonful of 
water, and for simple otalgia or earache it will suffice. If 
the case is complicated with inflammation, very severe pain 
or redness of the external ear, or of the passage, as is not 
unfrequently the case, give No. Twenty-two, four pellets 
every hour, either alone or in alternation with No. One 
until the disease has yielded, and for any remaining swell¬ 
ing or discharge give No. Twenty-two, four pellets four 
times per day. 

In severe cases, a little cotton-wool wet with Humphreys' 
Marvel Witch Hazel and placed gently in the ear, affords 
prompt relief, and may at any time be resorted to. 

HARDENED CERUMEN.— (Ear-wax). 

Cerumen, or ear-wax is composed of oil, stearine, a little 
coloring matter, scales of epidermis from the lining of the 


Disease and treatment.—affections of the ears, etc. 283 

meatus, and other substances. It contains only about (hi 
per cent of water, and is only very partially soluble. After 
remaining for some time in the canal, its watery constituent 
passes off by evaporation, and thus it becomes a hard mass 
In advancing age the wax contains a less proportion of 
water than during the early periods of life, as it becomes 
drier and more brittle. This wax seems to render the 
canal pliable, and perhaps also prevents the entrance of 
insects. 

The commonly-alleged cause of hardened ear-wax is a 
“ cold,” although frequently there is no evidence whatever 
that the patient has suffered from any catarrh of the head 
or throat. In some cases it is due to neglect of cleanliness, 
or to the use of the twisted end of a towel pushed too far 
into the canal, or to some similar method of cleansing the 
ear, which tends to impact the cerumen or to exhaust its 
watery element. But in the majority of cases the disorder 
is not simply a local affection, but a sign of some inflamma¬ 
tion of the mucous membrane lining the entrance to the 
ear, or of a diseased state of the glands, consequent on the 
degenerative changes of old age, lessening the nutrition of 
parts of the organ of hearing other than the auditory canal. 

Symptoms. —Defective hearing which has come on suddenly; 
tinnitus aurium, (ringing, or othe~ noise), and other nervous 
symptoms—vertigo, giddiness, pain in the ear, probably 
from pressure on the membrana tympana. In aged per¬ 
sons, especially, chronic accumulations may lead to absorp 
tion of the bony walls of the meatus. 

The deafness, instead of being constant, is intermittent 
the hearing is better in the morning, or after eating, or 
after rubbing the ear with the finger, or after insertion of 
the finger in the meatus. The deafness may be increased 
by cold and inflammation. 

The disorder may be palliated by removal of the wax. 
The wax is best removed by a careful use of the syringe, 


284 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


throwing a small jet of water, at the temperature of full 
blood heat, along the roof of the cavity. If the water be 
too hot or too cold it will cause giddiness. If pain ensue, 
the syringing should be discontinued. In syringing, the 
ear should be seized with the thumb and finger of the left 
hand, and pulled gently upward and backward as far as it 
will go, thus straightening the meatus. If the wax be not 
removed within.a few days, a few drops of warm glycerine, 
or warm solution of soda, put in the ear at night, will 
soften the wax and facilitate its removal. To ascertain the 
progress of removal, the ear should be frequently examined 
with an ear-speculum. Nothing is so effective a solvent of 
wax, as simple warm water. 

FURUNCLE, BOIL.—(A&scess of the Meatus). 

Is a very common, painful, and somewhat serious disease, 
to which some persons seem peculiarly liable, and is often 
associated with boils in other parts of the skin. The fre¬ 
quent recurrence of abscesses causes thickening of the walls 
of the meatus and of the drum, and, if the tendency to them 
is not eradicated, some degree of deafness is an invariable 
result. They are always exquisitely painful, and produce 
very decided tenderness around the ear. They are liable 
to recur. 

Symptoms.— Acute, throbbing, darting pain in the meatus, 
great tenderness, tense swelling, temporary partial deaf¬ 
ness, consequent on obstruction of the canal. 

Treatment.— Dissolve twelve pellets of No One in a half 
glass of pure water, and the same of No. Twenty-two 
in another similar portion of water and give a spoonful 
every two hours in alternation. 

Accessory Treatment.— A free use of fomentations and 
poultices as hot as can be borne, will relieve the acute pain, 
and hasten the formation of matter. The abscess should bej 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-AFFECTIONS OF THE EARS, ETC. 285 

opened early, as soon as the throbbing indicates the forma¬ 
tion of matter, because the tissues are so dense here, that 
spontaneous rupture is along and very painful process, and 
the bone may become carious. A little piece of lint may 
be moistened with two or three drops of Humphreys’ Mar¬ 
vel Witch Hazel, and introduced into the ear. Sub¬ 
sequent cold must be averted by avoiding draughts after 
fomentation, and by insertion of cotton wool in the ear. 
The latter is desirable for the absorption of the suppurat¬ 
ing matter, but should be frequently changed, lest, by 
drying, the wool should increase the irritation. 

OTORRHCEA .—{Dischargefrom the ear). 

Discharges from the ear frequently remain for a time 
after the acute affection has disappeared. But it is also 
frequently the result of scarlet fever, measles, or of some 
scrofulous development. Repeated attacks of earache are 
quite sure to result in long continued discharges from the 
ear, with its concomitant results, noises in the head, and 
hardness of hearing. The discharge is sometimes fetid, 
offensive, thick, green, cream-like, varying in consistence, 
quantity and character. 

Treatment. —The successful treatment of old, long 
standing otorrhoea, requires some time and patience. It 
cannot be done at once, but fortunately can be accom¬ 
plished, and the hearing of the organ generally preserved. 
The No. Twenty-two, four pellets (for children) three 
times per day, will generally accomplish the desired result. 
Occasional interposition of a dose of No. Thirty-five 
will be beneficial. 

General Measures. —The intractable character of this 
affection is often, in great measure, due to the neglect of 
strict cleanliness. The irritating discharge, if allowed to 
accumulate within the ear. undergoes decomposition, and 


286 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOS. 


gives rise to changes in the deeper structures of the ear. 
A little cotton wool, frequently changed, may be put into 
the ear when the discharge is declining, to protect it, out of 
doors, in cold weather; but even this should be done with 
great caution, particularly when the discharge smells offen¬ 
sively, for nothing can be more prejudicial than stopping 
the ear with cotton-wool to prevent its escape. To correct 
the foetor of the discharge, which is often very great, 
Humphreys* Marvel WiTCH Hazel should be injected, 
diluted with one-half of warm water. All fluids injected 
into the ear should be warm. 

The improvement of the general health of the patient is a 
point of great importance; for this purpose, change of air, 
and, in the autumnal months, sea-air, is often attended with 
most beneficial results. In the absence of sea-air, country- 
air, in a bracing district, is of great advantage. Cod-liver 
oil is also strongly recommended. 

It is a very common and very foolish idea, which has 
been fostered in the minds of the laity by ignorant or in¬ 
dolent physicians, that it is dangerous to cure a discharge 
from the ear. It is doubtful whether a single instance of 
evil results, under wise treatment, can be cited. Of course 
irritating lotions too often repeated may set up an acute 
Otitis based upon the chronic condition, but it very rarely 
happens; and the idea that the ear in these cases serves as 
a vent-hole for peccant humors is worthy only the dark 
ages. The continuance of this disease not only makes the 
patient a filthy and disgusting nuisance to himself and all 
around him, but it often greatly endangers life itself. 

DIFFICULT HEARING; NOISES IN THE HEAD. 

These two affections may properly be considered in con¬ 
nection. Buzzing, roaring, whizzing, and other noises in 
the head are often the incipient stage of deafness, and the 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-AFFECTIONS OF THE EARS, ETC. 287 

noise must of necessity impair the hearing. Noises in the 
head may result from a cold or some obstruction, or be the 
consequence of a running or discharge from the ear. Hard¬ 
ness of hearing may result from any of the cases heretofore 
named, or from dryness of the ear, insufficient secretion of 
the cerumen or ear-wax, or various morbid conditions of 
the internal ear. The ear should be examined and any 
accumulations of wax carefully removed. If the ear or wax 
is dry or hard, put in, on the point of a small camel’s-liair 
pencil, one drop of pure glycerine, night and morning until 
the wax is softened, or the dryness removed. Syringing 
the ears as is often done results in more harm than good. 
The less water or soap in the ear the better, aside from 
mere purposes of cleanliness. Recent cases are often 
cured, while the old and long-standing are not unfrequently 
obstinate; or, if the bone is involved, intractable. 

Treatment. —The No. Twenty-two is in general the 
remedy, and may be administered either for noises in the 
head or hardness of hearing, six pellets night and morning 
for adults. If after eight or ten days there is no decided 
improvement, use the No. Thirty-five, in like manner for 
eight days, and again return to the first prescription, 
and so continue for weeks, or months if necessary, 
using one medicine for eight days at a time and then 
resorting to the other. 

GENERAL HINTS ON AFFECTIONS OF THE EAR. 

1. Wet or damp ears .—A frequent cause of disease of the 
ear is the practice of leaving the head and ears of children 
imperfectly dry after washing. It is the more necessary to 
guard against this danger if there already exist any dis¬ 
charge from the ear. After bathing, the greatest care 
should be taken to dry the hair and ears thoroughly. As :* 
further precaution, a piece of fine linen or blotting-paper 


288 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


should be twisted into a coil, and gently introduced into 
the cavity of the ear, to absorb any remaining moisture. 

2. Boxing the ears. —Parents, governesses, and others who 
have the care of children, should be aware of an accident 
very liable to occur from blows on the head or boxing the 
ears, namely, rupture of the memhrana tympani, a 
membrane which closes the bottom of the meatus, and is 
stretched something like the parchment of a drum. The 
accident may be recognized by a sense of shock in the ear, 
deafness, and a slight discharge of blood from the orifice; 
and if examined by an ear speculum, the rent may be 
seen. There should be complete rest for several days, 
and a small plug of cotton warmed in Humphreys’ 
Marvel Witch Hazel introduced into the ear, frequently 
renewed. 

3. Deafness not stupidity .—Another point of considerable 
importance is the case in which a child, from being slightly 
deaf, has been thought to be stupid or obstinate. “Very 
sad is it to think how often a child is thus punished for his 
misfortune, and, it may be, irremediable injuries inflicted 
on the mind or temper of this poor victim of unintentional 
injustice. It it hardly necessary to insist upon the care 
which is requisite in examining the state of the hearing- 
power in a child, or to refer to the fact that children will 
often say, and doubtless think, that they hear a watch 
when they do not.” 



Diseases of the Air-Passages. 

APHONIA .—( Hoarseness). 

Definition. —Aphonia is a temporary or permanent 
paralysis of the muscles, which approximate the vocal 
cords in production of sounds. 

This affection is common, and generally the result of a 
cold or some irritation at the upper portion of the wind¬ 
pipe or larynx. It is sometimes deserving of serious 
attention, as it may indicate changes in the upper part of 
the larynx of a very grave character. It is also a symp¬ 
tom in croup, laryngitis, bronchitis and measles. Some¬ 
times the voice is wholly lost, the patient being only able 
to speak in whispers; at others, it is low, rough, hoarse 
or piping. 

Treatment. —When the hoarseness is the result of a 
cold, bronchitis, or other disease, no special attention 
need be paid to this particular symptom. It will dis¬ 
appear under the use of the Remedies given for the 
general disease. When it is idiopathic, or even the most 
prominent symptom, the No. Seven, six pellets every two 
or three hours, will soon restore the voice. In cases of 
chronic hoarseness or loss of voice, give six pellets of No. 
Seven, four times per day, continuing the same until 
relief is obtained. 


*290 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


Clergymen, after speaking, or persons who, after sing¬ 
ing, find the voice fatigued, hoarse, furzy, or the throat 
irritated, will find relief from taking the No. Seven, 
six pellets at once, and the portion may be repeated at 
intervals of three hours, until the unpleasant sensation or 
hoarseness has disappeared. In addition gargle the throat 
with Humphreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel. 


TUSSIS.— {Cough ). 

Cough is in general only a symptom of some other 
disease, such as catarrh, bronchitis, inflammation or 
congestion of the lungs, or the bronchia, or influenza, 
whooping-cough, etc.; and the cure of the cough will be 
effected by the cure of the disease upon which it depends. 
But in many cases the cough may be the chief, and 
perhaps the only indication of diseased action, and hence 
demand treatment of itself. Often it is the forerunner or 
first stage of some disease which is thus cured through 
the indications furnished by the cough. A suspicious 
cough, especially in persons of delicate health, or weak 
lungs, should never be permitted to continue from week 
to week, but should always excite our suspicion and 
demand the persistent use of the proper measures for its 
relief. 

Treatment. —In general the No. Seven will be suffi¬ 
cient. Give six pellets, dry or in water, four times per 
day, avoiding exposure to new irritation, and the desired 
end will generally soon be reached. 

Should the cough, however, be harsh and dry, with 
some fever or pain in the chest or side, it is better to 
alternate No. One with the No. Seven, giving six pellets 
every two hours alternately, until the cough is relieved. 


Disease and treatment. —diseases of the air-passages. 291 

Violent spasmodic coughs , approaching whooping-coughs, 
often require the use of No. Twenty, either alone or in 
alternation with No. Seven, given as directed above. 

Beverages. —Gum-water, barley-water, linseed-tea, and 
other mucilaginous drinks; or, if preferred, small quan¬ 
tities of cold water, at frequent intervals. 

Preventives. —Cold bathing or sponging the whole 
surface of the body every morning; clothing adapted to 
the varying conditions of the atmosphere; exercise every 
day in the open air, if possible in the country; familiarity 
with a free atmosphere affords a security against excessive 
sensibility to variations of the weather. Morning air is 
best; damp, confined air, or that of crowded assemblies, 
should be avoided. 


PERTUSSIS—( Whooping-Cough ). 


This disease, like scarlet fever and measles, may be 
communicated from one child to another by means of the 
breath, expectoration, from the persons affected, and 
rarely attacks the same individual the second time. It 
is more severe and dangerous in some seasons than at 
others, and though under Homeopathic treatment but 
few whooping-cough patients are lost, yet it is often a 
troublesome disease, and not unfrequently, under bad 
management, or in severe cases, leaves serious after 
sufferings in its train. Under our treatment, it generally 
passes off as a mild and not tedious visitation. 


292 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR 


It usually commences as a common cold, with cough, 
some fever, hoarseness, sneezing, or running from the 
nose, and this catarrhal stage may continue for eight, ten 
or fourteen days, before the true character of the disease 
is manifested. But the cough, if carefully noticed, has 
from the first a more spasmodic or convulsive character 
than a common cold, and by degrees its true form is 
developed, namely: severe shocks of expiration or cough , 
following each other in rapid succession , succeeded by a deep 
prolonged inhalation or inspiration , called the “hoop,” or 
“whoop,” or “kink.” Each paroxysm consists of a 
number of sudden, violent, and short expiratory efforts 
or coughs, which expel so large an amount of air from 
the lungs that the patient appears on the point of 
suffocation: these forcible efforts are followed by a deep- 
drawn inspiration, in which a rush of air through the 
partially-closed glottis gives rise to the distinctive crowing 
or whooping noise. This whooping is the signal of the 
patient’s safety, for when suffocation does take place, it 
is before the crowing inspiration has been made. During 
the paroxysms, the face becomes deeply red or black, 
and swells; the eyes protrude, and are suffused with 
tears; and the expression and appearance of the sufferer 
are such as apparently indicate imminent suffocation. 
The paroxysm terminates by the expectoration or vomit¬ 
ing of a considerable quantity of glairy, ropy mucus, 
almost immediately after which the child returns to his 
amusements, and appears quite well. The ropy kind of 
expectoration which follows the cough enables us to 
distinguish it from common cough even before the whoop 
has been heard. The attacks recur three or four times a 
day, or every three or four hours, or oftener; sometimes 
blood escapes from the nose, mouth, and even from the 
ears, during the fits. 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-DISEASES OF THE AIR-PASSAGES. 293 

Diagnosis. —It should be distinguished from * ‘Spas¬ 
modic Croup”. In Whooping-cough the “whoop” follows 
the cough; in Spasmodic Croup, it precedes it, when 
present; but cough is not an essential symptom of 
Laryngismus Stridulus. 

Cause. —An unknown micro-organism acting in the 
body, transmitted by unknown means and spread¬ 
ing by infection. Its infectious power is great, when at 
the height of its development. A frequent source of 
infection occurs when there has been partial recovery 
followed by mild relapse, and the disorder is transmitted 
to others to be developed in its worst form. 

Whooping-cough may be complicated with Small-pox, 
Measles, Bronchitis, Pneumonia, Pericarditis, etc. It is 
therefore desirable that the chest should be examined 
occasionally during the disease by a physician, especially 
in obstinate cases, so that any complications may be early 
met. Convulsions are liable to occur if teething be in 
progress at the time. If there exist a predisposition to 
Consumption, Whooping-cough may hasten its develop¬ 
ment. 

Uncontrolled by treatment, the disease often lasts 
twelve weeks, or even a longer period, while treated by 
our simple method, one-half or fourth of that period is 
sufficient. 

Treatment. —If the disease is prevailing, or children 
have been exposed to this disease, give the No. Twenty, 
two pellets three times per day. 

Should the disease have commenced as a common cold, 
with cough, fever, sneezing, or sore throat, give the 
No. One and No. Seven for one or two days, two pellets 
at a time, every two hours in alternation, and after that 
omit the No. Seven, and instead give the No. Twenty, 
in the same manner; and as soon as the feverish condition 


294 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


has subsided, omit the No. One and give only the No. 
Twenty, two pellets four times per day, and so continue 
during the course of the disease. 

If during the course of the disease the cough becomes 
frequent, tight, dry, and it loses the usual whooping sound, 
and with some fever, indicating the access of inflamma¬ 
tion of the bronchi, or of the substance of the lung, at 
once return to the No. One, and give two pellets every 
hour in solution until the threatening symptoms have 
been warded off; and then go on again with No. Twenty, 
either alone or in alternation with No. One. 

Often by taking the disease at the commencement, you 
will arrest its progress before its full development, and it 
will pass off in a week or two as a mere catarrhal cough, 
having never reached the whooping-cough form. 

During the disease, the child should be carefully nursed 
and fed on light, easily digested diet, with but little or no 
meat, avoiding cake or rich, heavy food, pies or sweet¬ 
meats; hut on the contrary, giving an abundance of 
mucilaginous drinks, such as gum-water, rice-water, 
barley-water, Iceland moss, weak chicken or lamb broth, 
or weak black tea or chocolate 


ACUTE CATARRH.—( Influenza — Grippe ). 

An attack of acute catarrh is generally manifested by 
sneezing often repeated, followed by a sensation of 
irritation, itching or tingling, extending along the nasal 
passages to the head and throat, and often down along 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-DISEASES OF THE AIR-PASSAGES. 295 

the larynx and bronchi into the lungs. To this there 
may be added coryza, tearfulness and weeping from the 
eyes and discharge of mucus from the nose; at first, thin, 
acrid, irritating and gradually becoming more copious, 
thick, yellow, and sometimes offensive, and the disease 
subsides. To this is sometimes added sore throat, cough 
and irritation of the lungs. 

Where many people are attacked during the same 
period with the above symptoms, which are, however, 
often widely modified, but always attended with a degree 
of debility , prostration and persistence of symptoms above 
what is warranted by the local irritation, it is usually 
denominated Grippe or “Influenza.” 

Treatment. —The No. Nineteen and No. Seven are 
usually all that is required. Should there be considerable 
fever or heat of the surface, either at once or succeeding 
a chill, it will be best to commence with No. One, 
and give of this every hour, six pellets dissolved in water, 
until the fever abates. Then give the No. Nineteen 
every two hours, six pellets alone; or, if there is some 
cough or bronchial irritation, alternate No. Seven 
with it at the same intervals until the disease is sub¬ 
dued. 


“LA GRIPPE,” or INFLUENZA of 1890 91. 

The foregoing description of La Grippe hardly does 
justice to the epidemic of 1890-91. The latter has been 
the most widely extended as well as the most deadly 
known in modern times, if not in history. From its 
first appearance in Russia in the early Winter of 1889-90, 
it visited in succession all the countries of Northern 
Europe including the British Isles, and from thence 


296 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


extended over the whole North American Continent, with 
varying degrees of severity. In the following Winter 
of 1890-91, it appeared again in all its old haunts and 
even in a more pernicious form, increasing largely the 
customary death rate and extending its depressing influ¬ 
ence over a very large proportion of the entire population. 
While no special class were exempt from its attacks, the 
aged or those of advanced life were its most numerous 
victims, and among these the mortality from its visitation 
was truly serious. 

The Symptoms and course of the disease vary consider¬ 
ably from previous visitations. While the usual symptoms 
of choryza or nasal irritation and discharge with cough 
and sore throat are frequent, there is a much more 
decided invasion of the vital forces in the form of pain in 
the head, back, chest or limbs, attended with decided 
languor or sense of general prostration or debility, and 
evidence of the invasion of the throat, bronchia and 
lungs soon become apparent. The pain in the head and 
the consequent cerebral excitement has been in not a 
few cases such as not merely to prostrate the subject of 
the attack, but in many instances to produce delirium 
and even insanity with suicidal intent; and in such cases 
this cerebral and nervous excitement and aberration 
seemed the most prominent effect. The pulmonary 
extention of the morbid influence forms the chief or more 
prominent danger, as the complication with bronchitis or 
broncho-pneumonia becomes the principal focus of the 
disease. The headache, backache, nasal or pharyngeal 
discharge, are of comparatively small consequence and 
soon yield to treatment, while the cough or bronchial 
irritation are more serious and persistent and so demand 
more consideration, and the more so if the patient is 
constitutionally feebleor of advanced age, or whose 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-DISEASES OF THE AIR PASSAGES. 29V 

vitality is from any cause impaired or feeble. Hence the 
treatment should from the first, and all along, have this 
in view. 

The No. Seventy-seven is the general remedy. It 
meets the epidemic condition in all its manifestations. 
Taken early it cuts it short promptly. Taken while suffer¬ 
ing from it a relief is speedily realized. Six pellets 
repeated every two hours, or, in extreme cases every 
hour, is the rule. 

For Extreme Fever, or any inflammatory action, No 
One may be taken in alternation with it, a dose every 
hour. 

For violent coughing or pains in the chest or lungs No. 
Seven may be alternated with it in like manner, or No. 
Nineteen /or profuse flowing catarrh. But in general no 
other remedy than No. Seventy-seven will be required. 

The No. Seventy-seven will “breakup” an obstinate 
Cold that ‘ ‘ hangs on ’ ’ and does not yield to treatment ; 
relieves in a few hours. 

The No. Twenty-four Tonic Tablets should be taKen, 
two or three tablets before each meal and before retiring. 

Be very moderate in the use of coffee or stimulants, 
and especially avoid exposure. Keep warm and comfort¬ 
able, and live upon very light and easily digested diet. 

CHRONIC CATARRH. 

Chronic catarrh may often be said to be constitutional. 
In some families every member is affected with it more or 
less. From the first years of childhood, there is an 
excessive secretion from the nose and air-passages. The 
disease is characterized by an excessive flow of mucus, 
more or less changed, from the lining membrane of the 
40 se and its back passages, the frontal sinus and throat, 


298 


tfOMEOfATttiC MEOTOft. 


and sometimes involving the bronchi and lungs. The 
discharge is varied in color, character and consistence. 
Often it is yellow, thick, abundant and offensive; or it 
may be drier, in plugs or crusts, obstructing the passages 
and only detached occasionally and with difficulty, 
accompanied with soreness or ulceration. Sometimes the 
membrane lining the passage is very red and painfully 
irritated from every inhalation of the air, and the dis¬ 
charge watery, thin and acrid; but the most common 
form is the profuse discharge of yellow, thick, offensive 
matter. Generally the sense of smell is impaired and 
sometimes quite lost, and not unfrequently the sense of 
hearing and taste are likewise more or less impaired. 
Though a chronic catarrh may continue many years and 
be very annoying and offensive, it is rarely fatal, and 
never terminates in consumption, whatever quacks may 
say about it. It is generally better in warm, dry weather, 
and worse in the spring and fall and in variable 
weather. 

Treatment. —The No. Nineteen is the proper remedy, 
and may be given, six pellets at a time and from two to 
four times per day, according to the urgency of the case. 
Should there be bronchial irritation, cough or hoarseness, 
the No. Seven may be used in alternation with No. 
Nineteen to good advantage. 

In connection with the above treatment great benefit 
will be derived from spraying the nostrils night and 
morning by means of an oil spray with a solution of white 
liquid vaseline and 2 gr. of menthol to the ounce. 


FALL CATARRH.— (Peach-Catarrh—Hay Asthma), 
This is a peculiar form of catarrh, to which many persons. 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-DISEASES OF THE AIR-PASSAGES. 29$~ 

especially in the better walks of life, are subject and 
which has received quite a variety of designations. It 
comes on at rarely varying periods, generally about the 
20th of August, and having made its attack, is almost 
sure to return every year at about the same day. It 
continues with varying degrees of intensity until about 
the first of October or the first cold or frosty day, when it 
gradually abates. The attack commences with sneezing, 
commonly violent and repeated, to which there is soon 
added tearfulness and discharge of thin watery secretion 
from the nose, sometimes so abundant as to fall in drops, 
or to soil a dozen or more handkerchiefs in a day. The 
eyes become watery, the lining membrane of the nose 
reddened and exceedingly irritated from the dust of 
traveling, or the pollen of flowers. Gradually the irrita¬ 
tion extends along the air-passage, involving the bronchia, 
and paroxysms of asthma set in, worse at night, obliging 
the patient to sit bolstered up, and rendering a horizontal 
position for the time impossible. While the difficulty of 
breathing is so great, the discharge from the eyes and 
nose and the sneezing abates; but after two or three days 
the asthma passes off and the eyes and nose have it again. 
And so the disease wears on with varying degrees of 
severity from bad to worse, until time and the cooler days 
afford relief from this most disagreeable and annoying of 
physical visitations. 

Numerous theories have been advanced as to the cause 
of this annual catarrh. It has been attributed to the 
down of peaches, the fragrance of roses, the dust of 
making hay, the pollen of' flowers, etc. But whether any 
or all of these theories are correct, it seems clearly to be 
connected with an advanced stage, or possibly, an incip¬ 
ient decay of some forms of vegetation; for we find it 
relieved for the time by a sea voyage, and patients suffering 


300 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


from it who domicile in those locations most removed 
from such influences are proportionately relieved. Thus, 
those who go to the Catskill or White Mountains 
say they are sensibly benefited, and those at the seaside, 
where scores of fashionable people, who flee from this 
visitant, are to be found every year, as certainly as the 
returning swallows, aver that they suffer only about one- 
fourth as much as when on the main land. 

Old school medicine has accomplished little or nothing 
toward relieving this class of patients, and the Homeo¬ 
paths have not done much better, patients of the most 
distinguished physicians of all schools in our large cities, 
being found in abundance at these places of refuge every 
year. 

Treatment. —If the patient can sojourn for the time at 
any of the localities named, or can take a sea voyage, 
it is to be advised. The No. Nineteen and No. Twenty- 
one had best be taken, six pellets, from one at night and 
the other in the morning, for some days before the 
expected attack, to ward it off if possible. When the 
attack comes on, commence at once with these two 
numbers and take six pellets every two hours alternately 
either dry or dissolved in water, and continue this at 
longer intervals as the disease abates. When the eyes are 
much affected with redness, intolerance of light, and 
profuse tearfulness, suspend the No. Nineteen and take 
instead No. Eighteen, every two hours six pellets, 
and so continue them until the irritation of the eyes 
is relieved. 

These three Remedies may be used, either alone or 
in alternation with each other during the course of the 
disease. You will thus relieve, shorten and wonderfully 
modify, if you do not entirely arrest this most unpleasant, 
if not dangerous annual visitation. 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DISEASES OF THE AIR-PASSAGES. 301 


ACUTE BRONCHITIS .—(Common Cold—Bronchial 
Irritation ). 

Acute Bronchitis is acute Inflammation of the mucous 
membrane of the bronchi—the air-tubes of the lungs. It 
may affect either the large or the small bronchi; and the 
smaller the tubes in which the inflammation exists , the 
greater the danger. Bronchitis is most common in 
elderly persons, although it is not infrequent in children. 

Chronic Bronchitis is a somewhat different disease, 
very common in advanced life. In mild cases there is 
only habitual cough, shortness of breath, and copious 
expectoration, and entire absence of Pyrexia. Many cases 
of winter cough in old persons are examples of chronic 
Bronchitis. It is often insidious in its approach, although 
it sometimes succeeds to acute Bronchitis, when that 
disease has been neglected or badly treated. 

These conditions have so many symptoms in common, 
and so frequently run into and overlap each other, that it 
is preferable to treat them in connection. Laymen would 
find it difficult to distinguish one from the other, nor 
would it be necessary in a practical point of view. A 
cold generally commences with a sensation of tingling, 
itching, irritation, or roughness along the lining mem¬ 
brane of the nose, and thence gradually extending back¬ 
ward along the air-passage into the bronchi or lungs. 
There is often sneezing, sometimes repeated, and soon a 
discharge, at first of thin acrid, and then by degrees 
thicker, yellowish mucus from the nose, and cough, at 
first harsh, dry, violent, often accompanied with a sense 
of roughness or excoriation in the larynx and upper part 
of the chest, and as the disease progresses, raising of at 


B02 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


first thin, and then of thicker, or yellowish sputa. Some¬ 
times the bronchi and chest are but little affected, and 
the disease expends itself upon the mucous membrane of 
the throat, nose and eyes, producing frequent sneezing, 
redness and irritation of the eyes, and profuse secretion of 
the acrid mucus from the eyes and nose. When the 
bronchi are particularly invaded, the cough is dry, harsh, 
painful and frequent, often inducing headache, together 
with more or less hoarseness, and sore throat if the upper 
part of wind-pipe (larynx) is involved. Fever to a 
greater or more limited extent is almost always present, 
and the disease presents all grades, from a sharp, well 
defined, acute bronchitis to a simple catarrhal irritation. 
As the disease declines, and sometimes from the first, an 
eruption of pimples or fever blisters appears around the 
mouth or lips, which are often very annoying. 

Treatment. —When a cold begins with cough, sneezing, 
pain in the breast, and general feeling as from having 
taken cold; resort at once to the No. Seven, of which 
take six pellets dry, and repeat it every two hours. 

If the cold commences with more severe symptoms, and 
some fever and considerable irritation of the lungs or 
bronchi, commence with No. One and take six pellets 
every hour at first, and after a few hours continue 
them in alternation with No. Seven at intervals of two 
hours, and so continue the two remedies until the force 
of the disease is broken. 

Should the disease assume more the catarrhal form, 
affecting the eyes, nose and throat, the No. Nineteen 
and No. Seven are the proper remedies, and should be 
administered as above. 

In all cases of colds, drink freely of cold water, live 
somewhat abstemiously, avoid coffee, stimulants over¬ 
feeding and exposure and fatigue. 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-DISEASES OF THE AIR-PASSAGES. 303 


ACUTE BRONCHITIS OF CHILDREN (Catarrh of 
the breast—hung Fever). 

This disease consists of an acute inflammation of the 
lining membrane of the air-passages. The inflammation 
may be limited to a portion of the bronchi, or involve the 
entire membrane; and it may be but slight and easily 
arrested, or it may be from the very first a very serious 
and dangerous malady. In young children, it is partic¬ 
ularly dangerous, forming the so-called “lungfever,’ ? and 
the younger the child the more critical the attack. 

In children, of an early age, it is quite frequent and 
commences usually with symptoms of an ordinary cold; 
but soon the breathing becomes quick, oppressed and 
labored, and from the increased action of the diaphragm, 
the abdomen becomes prominent; the shoulders and 
nostrils are in continual motion from the effort of breath¬ 
ing; on applying the ear to the chest, and often at quite 
a distance from the patient, the crepitation and mucus- 
rattle of the chest is very audible; expectoration coughed 
into the mouth and then swallowed, temporarily relieves, 
and occasionally the mucus is thrown from the air- 
passages by the effort of vomiting; the cough is frequent, 
short and distressing; the face becomes pale, anxious, and 
somewhat livid. The disease has its paroxysms and 
seasons of remission, during which the child appears 
drowsy, and, unless relieved, the paroxysms recur with 
increasing severity until death takes place from suffoca¬ 
tion. There is no appetite, but considerable thirst, and 
the symptoms are generally worse at night. Children at 
the breast find it difficult to nurse, from the oppression of 
the chest and impeded respiration. 


304 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


Treatment. —The No. One and No. Seven are the 
proper remedies, and may be administered in fluid form 
as follows: If the symptoms are at all urgent, prepare the 
medicine for children of two years or under, by placing 
eight pellets of No. One in as many teaspoonfuls of 
water, in one glass, and the same quantity of No. Seven 
in like quantity of water in another glass, then from 
these two give a spoonful every hour in alternation. 
Older children, or adults, may take twice as much at a 
dose as the above. In milder cases, a dose of two pellets 
every two hours may be sufficient, and these may be 
continued until the disease is arrested. 

If in children, who are in far the most danger in this 
disease, the fever should have been allayed, but the 
cough and difficulty of breathing, attended with great 
weakness, remains, then omit the No. One, and in place 
give the No. Six, the same dose, in alternation with 
No. Seven, and continue these so long as they are 
beneficial. 


LARYNGITIS .—(Inflammation of the Larynx). 

We distinguish two forms of this disease, the one acutd 
and running its course in a comparatively short time; 
the other chronic, which may continue for months 01 
years. The acute form is characterized by hoarseness, or 
low, dull voice, or a difficult, whispering voice, wanting 
in modulation; a sense of soreness or of tightness in the 
larynx and upper part of the chest; difficult, tight or 
wheezing inspiration; sensation of constriction in the 
throat, and inability to breathe freely accompanied with 
pain, is increased by pressure on the protuberance of the 
throat, or along the larynx. There is usually a hoarse. 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-DISEASES OF THE AIR PASSAGES. 305 

muffled cough, sometimes convulsive and dry, or with 
expectoration of tough adhesive mucus, sensation as if there 
were a foreign body or lump in the throat. If the inflam¬ 
mation involves the larynx, there will be difficulty and 
pain in swallowing. There is more or less fever, and in¬ 
creased redness on looking into the throat. In some cases 
the fever runs so high, and the hoarseness and difficulty 
of breathing are so great, as to approximate a case of true 
croup. But, as the treatment is similar, the fear of con¬ 
founding the two diseases need occasion no embarassment. 

Treatment. —In all serious, acute cases the No. One 
and No- Thirteen should be dissolved in water, twelve 
pellets of each in six spoonfuls of water, in separate glasses, 
and of these give alternately every hour until the fever has 
abated, when the No. Seven may be substituted for the 
No. One, and the Nos. Thirteen and Seven may be con¬ 
tinued until the disease is arrested. Spray the throat at 
intervals with Humphreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel, by 
means of an atomizer. 

CHRONIC LARYNGITIS. 

This chronic inflammation of the larynx, in some of its 
forms, is almost daily met with. It forms the so-called 
“Ministers’ Sore Throat,” and presents every grade of 
severity, from slight hoarseness and irritation, down 
through all shades of inflammation and ulceration, to the 
most inveterate forms of laryngeal consumption. The 
disease often commences with slight hoarseness and irrita¬ 
tion of the throat, frequent belching or raising of scanty 
mucus and slight cough. As the disease progresses, these 
symptoms increase, and there is also dryness, burning, 
itching or tickling and tightness, or in some cases a dull, 
smarting, or an acute pain in the larynx. The voice may 
be hoarse or whispering, or piping, and only formed with 


306 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


effort. In the earlier stages, the voice is uncertain and 
often breaks in singing or loud speaking. The cough, at 
first dry and short, becomes gradually loose, with raising 
of mucus or purulent expectoration. Gradually, as the 
disease progresses, ulceration takes place, generally marked 
by pain in the throat as from a sharp-pointed body, 
especially when speaking. Should the disease involve the 
pharynx, there is also difficulty in swallowing, and in the 
effort the food or drink may be returned through the 
nostrils. If the ulceration involves the rim of the glottis, 
the voice is lost and the patient only speaks in whispers. 
As ulceration progresses, the discharge becomes purulent, 
bloody and even offensive; portions of lymph, cartilage 
and even ossific matter are discharged; the cough and 
difficulty of deglutition increase, often in paroxysms; the 
general health gives way; hectic fever, night sweats, 
emaciation, swelling of the limbs, loss of appetite, vomit¬ 
ing with the cough, and diarrhea, are unfavorable in¬ 
dications, and lead us to look for the worst. There is 
usually soreness of the larynx on pressure, and from the 
inhalation of cold air. Coughing, sneezing, speaking, 
laughing or swallowing frequently bring on a fit of severe 
suffering. 

Treatment. —In the earlier stages, while there is simply 
hoarseness and some degree of dryness or irritation in the 
throat and cough, the No. Seven will be sufficient to con¬ 
trol it, and may be given six pellets at a time, and 
repeated every three or four hours, and so continued from 
day to day. 

Should the hoarseness be more decided, with cough, 
dryness, heat and irritation of the throat, or if the disease 
is fairly developed, resort to the No. Thirteen, of which 
give six pellets, dissolved in water, every three hours, 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DISEASES OF THE AIR PASSAGES. 307 

and so continue for two or three days. After that, give 
the No. Seven and No. Thirteen in alternation, every 
three hours. 

Should there be decided fever, a dose or two of No. One 
may be occasionally interposed with advantage. 


PLEURISY. 

This disease is of rather frequent occurrence, and is 
usually one of grave importance. It is an inflammation 
of the pleura or membrane, covering the lungs on one side, 
and being reflected upon the walls of the chest upon the 
other side, thu3 forms what is termed the pleural-sac. It 
is a very thin membraneous tissue, having a serous surface 
and quite liable to inflammation and consequent exudation 
of serum. The inflammation and pain may be located in 
any part of the chest, or even affect a considerable portion 
of it. A well marked pleurisy commences with a decided 
chill, lasting often some hours, followed by high fever, 
heat, red face, sharp, quick pulse, and very severe stitching, 
stabbing , or lancinating pains, often confined to one spot 
in the side, or front of the chest. The pain is sharp, 
catching, lancinating, arresting or intercepting the breath¬ 
ing, and is greatly aggravated by coughing or even by 
movement; and the chest is sensitive to pressure at the place 
where the pain is located. The respiration is difficult and 
anxious, often intercepted by the stitch, but less oppressed 
than in pneumonia. The cough is short and dry, and 
greatly increases the stitch or pain in the side. The pulse 
is quick and hard; tongue inclined to dryness or parched; 
thirst decided; urine scanty and high-colored; and the 
patient generally lying on his back. If effusion of serum 
has occurred in one side of the chest, lying upon the 


808 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


opposite side is very difficult. The effusion is generally 
absorbed in the process of cure, but, when the absorbent 
powers of the system have become weakened, and the cure 
is imperfect, the secretion may be only partially taken up, 
and adhesion of the pleural surfaces may occur, thus 
practically uniting the surface of the lung to the walls of 
the chest, and occasioning more or less inconvenience in 
after life. 

Physical Signs. —On applying the ear, or the stethoscope 
to the affected part of the chest at an early period, the dry 
inflamed surfaces may be heard rubbing against each other 
and producing a friction-sound, this rubbing may ako be 
felt by placing the hand on the corresponding part of the 
chest; it is probably due to the pleura being preternaturally 
dry by exhalation, or to its being roughened by formation of 
fibrine. 

Causes. —Exposure to atmospheric vicissitudes, and 
sudden checking of the perspiration, are the most frequent 
causes, especially in persons of unhealthy constitutions; 
surgical operations and mechanical injuries are frequently 
exciting causes; thus the rough ends of a fractured rib may 
set up inflammation of the pleura. It may also be excited 
by extension of other diseases. The cause of the disease 
may materially alter the treatment. 

Treatment. —The No. One and No. Seven are the 
proper remedies, and should be given thus: Dissolve twei/e 
pellets of No. One in as many spoonfuls of water _nd of 
this give a spoonful (large if for an adult, and rmall if for 
a child) every half hour, and continue this medicine until 
the pulse is reduced and softened, the pain is diminished 
and the surface cooled, and for twenty-four hours, unless 
the disease has yielded before this period. Then prepare 
No. Seven in like manner, and administer it in alternation 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DISEASES OF THE AIR PASSAGES. 309 

with No. One, at intervals at first of one hour, and then 
of two hours, until the entire disease has succumbed. 

In some rare cases, where the fever has been subdued, 
and some degree of pain in the chest or soreness yet lingers, 
the use of No. Fifteen, either alone or in alternation with 
No. Seven, may remove it. 

Accessory measures. —Either in pleurisy and inflamma¬ 
tion of the lungs, or of other large organs, if the attack is 
decided or well marked, it is advisable to give the patient 
at once a hot foot-bath in the manner heretofore recom¬ 
mended in this work, so as to induce a determination of 
blood to the extremities, and excite general perspiration. 
After the patient has been put to bed, should the pain on 
breathing, and the oppression of the chest be severe, a hot 
fomentation, applied directly to the part, will be of great 
advantage. The best mode of making it is thus: Take 
common muslin, and cut out and run up a bag—say eight 
or ten by twelve inches—enough to entirely cover the 
suffering part. Fill this with meal and bran, in propor¬ 
tion of one part of meal to twc of bran, so that when the 
filling shall be evenly distributed, the fomentation shall 
be about a half an inch or more in thickness. Pour, say, 
half an inch of hot water into a tin pan, and lay the bag 
in, evenly spread out. It will at once become thoroughly 
hot and saturated, and may be applied direct^ to the chest 
as hot as can be borne, and covered with a flannel to pre¬ 
vent wetting the clothes. It rarely fails to afford prompt 
and decided relief, and may be repeated from time to time, 
if necessary, and is far better than blisters or mustard 
plasters. 

Pleurisy, both before and after effusion, is now treated 
by strapping the affected side firmly with broad pieces of 
common plaster, placed obliquely to the direction of the 


310 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


ribs, so as to secure rest. Many cases, it is said, have 
been cured very quickly simply by this means. 

Perfect quiet with a semi-recumbent posture should be 
secured. The diet should be light,—gruel, arrowroot, 
broth; frequent sips of cold water will allay thirst. In 
case of effusion into the pleura, the diet should be dry. 


PLEURODYNIA—( False Pleurisy—Stitch in the side). 

This is a rheumatic affection of the intercostal muscles of 
the chest, and similar to pleurisy, in that it is character¬ 
ized by a sharp stitch or stinging pain in the chest. It 
may be distinguished from pleurisy in not being preceded 
by a chill, and being without fever. The pain shifts from 
place to place. The surface of the chest or side is usually 
sore, and the pain may be excited by drawing the finger 
along between the ribs. Give a few doses of six pellets of 
No. One or No. Fifteen, they may be repeated every two 
hours. 


PNEUMONIA .—(Inflammation of the lungs). 

Inflammation of the substance of the lungs may occur 
alone, or in connection with pleurisy, which is indeed its 
most common form. If one lung only be involved, it is 
termed single Pneumonia; if both, double. The latter 
occurs in about one out of every eight cases; in the single 
variety two cases out of every three are Pneumonia of the 
right lung. The portions chiefly involved are the lower 
posterior and the base of the lung. The disease frequently 
co-exists with Pleurisy, when, if Pneumonia forms the 
chief disease, the double affection is called Pleuro-pneumo- 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DISEASES OF THE AIR PASSAGES. 311 


nia. If, however, Pleurisy predominates, it is termed 
Pneumo-pleuritis. It commences like pleurisy, with a 
chill, frequent rigors passing over the body for some hours, 
followed by fever, with great heat of the surface, which is 
hot and dry; pulse quick, but rarely so quick or bounding 
as in pleurisy; breathing is quickened, hot, oppressed, 
anxious, and sometimes interrupted by the pain; tongue 
dry, sometimes parched; urine high colored and scanty; 
cough short, distressing, and dry at first, gradually becomes 
more moist, raising a little adhesive viscid, or tenacious 
mucus, which is at first semi-transparent, but soon becomes 
greyish, mixed with blood, rust colored, or .even like prune- 
juice; the speech is interrupted, hesitating, with frequent 
pause and abdominal respiration. Sometimes the pain is 
not sharp, only dull, with a sense of oppression or tight¬ 
ness. The face is less red but more livid than in pleurisy; 
the vessels of the neck become swelled and turgid, and the 
frequent cough often causes severe headache. The patient 
lies upon his back, dislikes to talk and desires to be let 
alone; sometimes is very irritable or careless of his situation. 

In persons having a low vitality, purulent infiltration 
may occur, which consists of diffused suppuration of the 
lung-tissue. In rare cases, a circumscribed abscess forms, 
and on applying the ear to that part of the chest, a 
gurgling sound may be heard; this condition is usually 
preceded by rigors; and a hollow or cavernous sound 
follows when the abscess has been emptied by coughing 
and expectoration. The occurrence of copious expectora¬ 
tion of whitish or yellowish mucus, general perspiration, 
a sudden abundant discharge of urine with copious sedi¬ 
ment, diarrhea, or even bleeding of the nose, may be 
regarded as forming a crisis, encouraging the hope of a 
favorable termination. 


312 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


Occasionally, in old or enfeebled constitutions, gangrene 
of a portion of the lung may occur. This condition is 
easily recognized by a most intolerable odor of the patient’s 
breath, resembling that proceeding from mortification of 
external parts. Unless the gangrenous portion is extremely 
limited, the case is almost certain to terminate fatally. 

Causes. —Severe or long-continued exertion, or over¬ 
fatigue, either alone or combined with cold. Brief expo¬ 
sure to cold, however intense, is rarely sufficient to excite 
this inflammation; it is rather a prolonged and deep-reaching 
cause of cold that can produce this effect. “Thus,” 
writes Dr. C. J..B. Williams, “ if a person gets thoroughly 
wet, and remains long in wet clothes, or lies out on damp 
ground; or a sentinel standing or slowly pacing for hours 
in a cold wind, the chill goes to the heart, as it were, and 
paralyzes the deep circulation, and Pneumonia is likely to 
be the result. Boys who get heated at football, or some 
other violent exercises, throw themselves on the damp 
grass, or remove clothing to cool themselves, or stand 
about; the chill operating on the exhausted body causes 
extreme congestion in the lungs, the circulation of which 
has been weakened by the previous violent respiratory 
efforts. The result is Pneumonia, generally asthenic, 
commonly double, and attended with much prostration.” 

As the patient improves, the heat of the surface is re¬ 
duced; the breathing is more free; the skin and tongue 
become and remain moist; the sputa becomes more free, 
less tenacious and lighter colored, and the cough less fre¬ 
quent and painful; and quiet sleep, with general perspira¬ 
tion and free discharge of urine, indicate a crisis and the 
breaking up of the disease. On the contrary, increased 
oppression of the chest, dryness of tongue and skin, fre¬ 
quency of the cough and scanty viscid, rusty, expectora- 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DISEASES OF THE AIR PASSAGES. 313 

tion, hiccough and delirium, indicate the progress of the 
disease. It is, however, generally curable in its earlier 
stages, under our management. 

Treatment. —Should be commenced with No. One, of 
which dissolve twelve pellets in six large spoonfuls of 
water for adults, of which give a spoonful every hour for 
the first twenty-four hours; also, give the patient a hot foot¬ 
bath, and if the tightness, oppression of the chest or pain 
is very severe, apply the hot fomentation to the chest, as 
directed under the treatment of pleurisy. After twenty- 
four hours give the No. Seven, prepared in the same 
manner as No. One, and give the two medicines in alter¬ 
nation, at intervals of one hour. Continue this until the 
disease is removed, gradually increasing the intervals 
between the doses to two or even three hours, as the im¬ 
provement progresses. 

After convalescence, should there remain some tendency 
to cough, debility and sweating at night, six pellets of 
No. Ten at night, and of No. Thirty-five each morning. 
Take Tonic Tablets according to directions. 

Accessory Means. —The patient should be warmly but 
lightly covered; the temperature of the apartment 60° to 
i)5°. A large, thick linseed-meal poultice, or spongio- 
piline, to fit the chest in front and back. A continuous 
poultice is one of the best methods of providing for the 
local loss of vitality in Pneumonia and similar diseases. 
Niemeyer says: “in all cases I cover the chest of the 
patient, and the affected side in particular, with cloths 
which have been dipped in cold water and well wrung out. 
The compresses must be removed every five minutes, un¬ 
pleasant as this procedure is in all cases, yet even after a 
few hours the patients assure me they feel a material 
relief. The pain, dyspmea, and often the frequency of 


314 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


the pulse, is reduced. Sometimes the temperature goes 
down an entire degree.” The patient must be kept very 
quiet, have mucilaginous drinks and farinaceous diet, and 
be treated generally as diTected under Enteric Fever, 
pages 182—192. 

CONGESTION OF THE CHEST. 

This condition, determination of blood to the chest, may 
be supposed to exist where there is a sensation of fulness, 
heaviness, weight or oppression in the chest. There may 
be also throbbings, or palpitations of the heart, attended 
with anxiety, short, sighing, or difficult breathing, and 
sometimes a short cough. It is most common in young 
plethoric subjects, or those of consumptive habit. It is 
sometimes occasioned by over exertion, exposure to heat 
and cold, use of stimulants, coffee, spices, vinous or alco¬ 
holic beverages, or may be caused by suppression of erup¬ 
tions or accustomed discharges. 

Treatment. —In general a few doses of No. One, six 
pellets, taken at intervals of two hours, will promptly 
relieve it. Should there be frequent recurrence of the 
attack, or the condition threaten to become chronic, ad¬ 
minister the No. Thirty-five each night on retiring, and 
the No. One each morning. If it has been caused by 
suppression, or too scanty flow of the menses, give the No. 
Eleven, and repeat every two hours until relieved. If 
connected with constipation, hemorrhoids or indigestion, 
administer the No. Ten in like manner. 

ASTHMA. 

This affection of the lungs and air passages is character¬ 
ized by difficulty of breathing, coming on in paroxysms, 
attended with a suffocative, or constrictive sensation. 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DISEASES OF THE AIR PASSAGES. 315 


cough and expectoration. The paroxysms may come on 
suddenly, without warning, and more frequently at night, 
but often they are preceded by a feeling of irritation in the 
air passages, or a sense of fulness or oppression at the pit 
of the stomach. During the attack the respiration is 
labored, wheezing, or sighing long drawn, accompanied 
with anxiety, and the shoulders, larynx and chest are 
moved with the violence of the effort. The patient usually 
sits or stands, (can rarely recline), with his arms elevated 
so as to expand the chest; and often requires the doors or 
windows to be opened to give him air. There is a sense 
of constriction or tightness in the chest, or as if he was 
breathing through a sponge; frequent cough, at first short, 
dry; then, by degrees, becoming more moist; or with 
frequent profuse expectoration of mucus, even from the 
first; the face is pale, sometimes livid; eyes anxious and 
protruded; often cold sweat on the forehead, face and 
chest; with palpitation of the heart or arteries, and the 
pulse is irregular, quick or intermittent. These paroxysms 
last from a few hours to as many days, and recur again 
in a few days or weeks, leaving the patient comparatively 
free in the interval. It is common to divide the disease 
into two varieties,—the dry and moist asthma. In the 
first the attacks are more sudden, and cough short, dry, 
with little expectoration, even towards its close; while in 
the latter, the attack is more gradual and the cough 
severe, and the expectoration becomes copious, as relief is 
afforded. 

The disease arises from irritation of the nerves of respi¬ 
ration resulting in most cases from deranged digestion, 
from the intimate nervous connection existing between the 
digestive and the respiratory organs; it may also be pro¬ 
duced by changes of the atmosphere, or by introduction of 


316 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


some poisonous but subtile material floating in the atmo¬ 
sphere, and brought by inspiration into contact with the 
respiratory surface, such as the minute particles, or the 
mere odor, which passes off from powdered ipecacuanha 
or hay; the vapor of sulphur, sulphurous acid gas, or 
chlorine. Asthma is often associated with the gouty or 
rheumatic diathesis. Excessive exertion and mental emo¬ 
tion frequently bring on a paroxysm. After it has once 
occured, Asthma is easily reproduced in indigestion, 
especially after late dinners or suppers. A frequent repeti¬ 
tion of the fits leads to a dilated state of the air passages 
and air cells of the lungs ( Emphysema ), dilation of the 
right cavities of the heart, and the general displacement 
of that organ which uniformly exists in persons who have 
long suffered from this disease. The disease may also be 
hereditary. 

Treatment. —Our success in curing this disease depends 
upon our ability to remove the morbid condition from 
whence it arises. In some cases, the remedies directed 
will perfectly meet the indication, and so a permanent 
cure will be effected. In others it may be in its nature 
incurable, and in these cases we are only able to palliate 
the disease, or fundamental condition, and to relieve the 
attacks when they recur. 

During the interval, and to prevent a recurrence of the 
attack, take six pellets of the No. Twenty-one at night, 
and six of No. Seven each morning, unless some particular 
demand be made for some other medicine, for some other 
symptom or indication. During the paroxysm, dissolve 
twelve pellets of No. Twenty-one in six spoonfuls of 
water, and of these give one every hour, and so continue 
until the paroxysm has abated, gradually prolonging the 
intervals as the amendment progresses. 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DISEASES OP THE AIR PASSAGES. 317 

If there is palpitation, or violent beating of the heart 
you may give in alternation with No. Twenty-one, the 
No. Thirty-two. Sometimes very violent paroxysms have 
been relieved by No. Six, given in like manner. Children 
require only half the above doses. 

Accessory Means.— During a fit, striking relief may 
often be obtained by putting the feet and hands into hot 
water. At the same time, ventilation must not be 
neglected; the windows should be regularly thrown wide 
open to renew the air of the apartment. 

Preventive Measures. —Persons predisposed to Asthma 
should strictly avoid all its exciting causes, especially indi¬ 
gestible food and heavy suppers; wet feet, damp clothes, 
and sudden changes of temperature. The inclination to 
stooping should be corrected, and the shape and capacity 
of the chest improved by a systematic course of drilling. 
The “ plan of dietary ” sketched in the first portion of this 
volume should be adhered to; for the slightest disorder of 
the stomach may occasion an attack. Pastry, highly-sea¬ 
soned dishes, too great a variety or too great a quantity at 
one meal, coffee, and heating beverages, should be avoided. 
“ More is to be done for asthmatic patients on the side of 
the stomach than in any other direction. ” In some cases 
the diet should be weighed, the hours of meals fixed, and 
rigidly adhered to. An important point is to take the last 
solid meal at such an hour as shall allow time for its com¬ 
plete digestion before retiring to bed. Although suppers 
are generally injurious, a cup of bread-and-milk or a small 
sandwich is acceptable in the evening, and is by no means 
hurtful to an asthmatic patient desiring food at that time. 

The Shower-bath is a valuable and potent agent to fortify 
the body against Asthma; the sudden application of water 
strengthens the whole system, and renders the body less 


318 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


sensitive to atmospheric changes. Out-of-door exerci^, 
walking or riding, is also useful; but it should not be taken 
within one or two hours after a meal, or to such an extent 
as to accasion fatigue. 


HiEMOPTYSIS.— (Pulmonary Hemonrhage—Bleeding from 
the Lungs ). 

This is always a very grave affection, sometimes very 
dangerous indeed. Not more so from what it is in itself 
than from the condition of the pulmonary tissue which it 
indicates. The bleeding may arise from one of several con¬ 
ditions: Thus, it may arise as a mere exudation from the 
mucus surface of the lungs, bronchi or throat; or from 
congestion or engorgement and overfilling of the vessels 
and substance of the lungs; or it may arise from a rupture 
of one or more important, or of numerous minute, blood¬ 
vessels in the substance of the lungs. Thus, in any case, 
it points to a morbid and more or less critical condition of 
the pulmonary organs. The first and second forms men¬ 
tioned are generally curable, and the cure of the last 
depends upon our ability to control or cure the general 
disease. All blood thrown from the mouth is not nec¬ 
essarily from the lungs. Sometimes it comes from the 
stomach, but in this case it is vomited up—comes up with 
retching and nausea, in quantities, and is of dark color; 
while if it comes from the lungs, it comes with coughing 
or “ hehming, ” and is lighter colored, or bright red, or 
frothy,—comes with a hot or boiling sensation, or sense 
of effervescence in the chest, the patient often knowing 
just where it comes from, and it is generally attended witb 
great sinking and prostration of strength. 


"DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DISEASES OF THE AIR PASSAGES. 319 


Bleeding from the lungs sometimes comes on as the vica¬ 
rious effect of a suppression of the menses, or other dis¬ 
charge, and is cured with the restoration of the suppressed 
function. It occasionally occurs in stout, full-blooded, 
plethoric individuals, and is of less consequence than when 
it occurs in spare, meagre, consumptive individuals. 

Treatment. —When a hemorrhage occurs, it is all irm 
portant that the patient and all the attendants should b<> 
calm and discreet, not rash or hasty. Noise, haste and 
fright are the most dangerous auxiliaries of the accident, 
while composure and presence of mind are half the battle. 

The patient should be placed as quietly as possible in a 
half-sitting or reclining position, and be perfectly at rest, 
without speaking or being spoken to, having his wants 
anticipated if possible. Supply the patient with cloths or 
a vessel, so he may discharge the blood from the mouth, 
without effort of the body. If a good Homeopathic phy¬ 
sician is at hand, let him be sent for. 

If you have Humphreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel, get it 
at once, and put a large spoonful into a common drinking 
glass, half full of water, and of this give a dessert spoon¬ 
ful every five, ten or fifteen minutes, according to the 
effect, being careful to prolong the intervals to half an 
hour, one or two hours, in proportion as the bleeding is 
arrested. It will act very promptly if the blood is a little 
dark, not bright red. If you have not Humphreys’ 
Marvel Witch Hazel, use a tablespoonful of common salt, 
with the same quantity of water, and give in the same 
manner. 

If the blood is more red and frothy, and especially with 
young, plethoric individuals, put twenty pellets of the No. 
One in the quantity of water mentioned above, and give 
a dessert spoonful at the intervals above mentioned, in 


320 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


alternation with Humphreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel. 
These remedies will very generally arrest the hemorrhage, 
yet the patient should, for some days, be exceedingly 
careful to avoid effort, coughing, exertion, or exposure, 
to prevent a recurrence of the attack. 


PHTHISIS PULMONALIS .—(Pulmonary Consumption). 


Consumption is a infectious wasting constitutional 
disease, attended by deposits of the tubercle bacillus, in 
which the lungs are destroyed by the degeneration of 
morbid products, or deposits—tubercles, pneumonia, 
exudation, etc., and consequent ulceration. The term 
tubercular disease, tuberculosis and phthisis are synony¬ 
mous. It is one of the most frequent and fatal diseases 
to which the human family are subject; prevailing in all 
countries and in all climates, and among all classes, the 
poor and ill-cared for, as well as the rich. It is, also, 
less in some countries and climates than others, but none 
has yet been found which is exempt from it. So of 
classes and conditions of society. None have been found 
among whom the disease is a stranger. The most nearly 
exempt are those families who for years have exclusively 
used appropriate and properly prepared (potentised) 
Homeopathic medicines. Exhausting or debilitating 
causes, produce a condition of innervation, or vital 
prostration, during which tubercles are deposited; so that 
these diseases or conditions have been only the stepping 
stone to the tuberculous deposit and consumption itself. 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DISEASES OF THE AIR PASSAGES. 821 

This disease may approach in several different ways, 
some of which we will indicate. It is most common 
among subjects from seventeen to twenty-five years of age. 
It is perceptibly lessened at thirty-five, and over fifty quite 
unusual. In the more insidious form, the patient may be 
noticed to have a little less vigor and energy than usual; 
to have less of flesh or embonpoint; lips and cheeks a little 
paler than usual; complains of being out of breath on 
exercise, or has even a slight tightness on breathing; has 
a persistently accelerated pulse—ranging from 90—120 or 
higher;* has a little dry cough or a hack, as it is called, 
and may raise a little frothy mucus. These symptoms 
may go on for months, without attracting particular 
attention, or pass off altogether, and then recur again. 
If not arrested, the cough gradually grows more frequent, 
dry, irritating, troubling the patient, especially at night; 
the loss of flesh becomes more manifest,** while the 
appetite may be yet fair, or only capricious; gradually 
there is some chilliness in the morning hours, and 
some heat towards evening;*** the cheeks are more pale, 


*A persistent rapidity of the pulse, ranging from 90 to 120, or higher, is an 
invariable symptom of active Phthisis. The pulse is especially liable to become 
quicker towards evening: and, as the disease advances, more rapid and also 
feebler. It is rarely under 100, and may run up from this to 140, or till it is im¬ 
possible to be reckoned; and there is no more disastrous symptom. 

** Slow and gradual emaciation—“ the grain-by-grain decay is far more 
indicative of Phthisis than a rapid or irregular diminution of weight; and ema¬ 
ciation is more marked, and also more dangerous, in individuals who have 
been previously stout. To detect the continuously progressive emaciation.it 
is necessary to have patients accurately weighed from time to time. By this 
means we are also able to judge of the proportion of the weight of a patient to 
his height, age, breathing, and other functions. 

*** Temperature.— The value of the thermometer in the diagnosis of Phthisis 
will be recognized by the fact that during the growth of tubercle in the lungs, 
or in any organ of the body, the temperature of the patient is raised from 98° 
Fahr.,—the normal temperature, to 102° or 103°, or even 104° the temperature in¬ 
creasing in proportion to the rapidity of tubercular growth. The sign may 
occasionally be detected several weeks before reduced weight or other signs in¬ 
dicate the undoubted existence of tubercle and, in the absence of other signs pe¬ 
culiar to the disease, will determine the diagnosis of Consumption from Chlorosis, 
or from Heart-disease. 



322 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


and the fingers more attenuated, and the ends of the nails 
somewhat hooked; * by degrees the cough becomes more 
frequent, expectoration more abundant, white, frothy and 
streaked with yellow, and may be saltish or sweetish to the 
taste; chills now become more decided, recurring every day, 
usually in the morning, with heat, and circumscribed red¬ 
ness of cheeks every afternoon; the bowels, until now con¬ 
fined, become loose, with frequent stools; sweat comes on 
at night, at first around the neck and chest, greasy or 
sticky, and gradually over the entire person; the cough, 
expectoration and emaciation progress more and more; the 
feet and legs swell; the mind wanders, and death gradually 
closes the scene. 

In very many or most cases consumption comes on as 
the sequel to other diseases. These being imperfectly 
cured, leave the system exhausted, and tubercles are de¬ 
posited, which beginning to soften, produce irritation, 
cough, pain in the chest or side, quick pulse, hectic fever, 
emaciation, night sweats, diarrhea, expectoration of pus, 
or yellow, heavy, thick, adhesive mucus, and all the usual 
symptoms attending the advanced stage of the disease. 
Women, after confinement, not unfrequently run into con¬ 
sumption after this fashion. Yet, on looking back over 
the history of the case, it will be found that there had 
existed previously, some cough, pain in the side, or 
oppression of the chest, emaciation or debility, which was 
in fact the premonitory stage of the disease, and which 
was suspended for a time, and only warmed into vigor by 
the debility occasioned by the new attack of disease. 

In some subjects, especially those in early life and of 
peculiar temperaments, the disease runs so rapid a course, 
as to have secured the name of “ galloping consumption.’ 7 
This is especially so with persons of scrofulous habit, viz: 

* It. is due to the reader to state that this supposed symptom of Phthisis is 
now believed to be simply one of emaciation, having no value whatever as a 
ftif 11 of tubercles, but occurs more or less in emaciation from any cause. 



DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DISEASES OF THE AIR PASSAGES. 323 


Thin, light skin, fair hair, long teeth, waxen complexion, 
tall stature, or with thin chest and pointed shoulders, and 
enlarged glands beneath the cheek or along the sides of the 
neck. Not unfrequently in such individuals, with few or 
no premonitions, beyond a slight cough and some degree of 
debility and weakness, a slight or severe hemorrhage from 
ihe lungs occurs, by which the strength of the patient is 
cut down at once; and in comparatively few days, cough, 
expectoration and hectic fever set in, and the patient rnns 
along the course of the consumption with rapid strides. 

Advanced cases of consumption are easily recognized; 
the earlier stages; the incipient beginnings are readily 
overlooked, and, but too frequently, grave mischief has 
been done before the patient or friends have been aware of 
danger. But whenever a person has some slight or severe 
cough, which does not pass off readily, some shortness or 
tightness of breath, or pain in the chest or side, and above 
all, if she is feeble, easily fatigued and emaciated , or losing 
flesh, it is better to give ourselves the advantage of the 
doubt, and at once apply the remedies and means for a 
cure, rather than wait the farther development of the 
disease. 

Causes. —The deposition of the tubercle bacillus in the 
lung tissue, the antecedent causes that favor the deposition 
are, pneumonia, irritation from foreign bodies, coal, iron 
or slate dust, unsanitary and unhealthy surroundings, lack 
of plenty of fresh air, insufficient nourishment, anything 
that tends to lower vitality and enfeeble the powers of life. 
“ So long as misery and poverty exist on the one hand, 
or dissipation and enervating luxuries on the other, so 
long will the causes be in operation wffiich induce this 
terrible disease” {Bennett). 

Duration. —The average may be said to be from nine 


324 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


months to two years; but in acute cases, the disease ad¬ 
vances rapidly through the entire substance of both lungs, 
and it may prove fatal in two or three months, or even in 
as many weeks. 

The Curability of consumption is a mooted question, 
and one upon which popular impression and medical 
testimony are at variance. But the moderate view of the 
cure is this: That all cases of incipient or undeveloped 
consumption are easily curable, by proper remedies and 
appropriate surroundings. That cases in the second stage 
have a fair chance of recovery; while in the more advanced 
cases the recoveries are only rare. 

Very little dependence can be placed on any remedy foi 
the cure of Tuberculosis or Consumption of the Lungs. 
It is at most a question of fresh air, nutrition, and the* 
patient’s powers of assimilation. A strict attention to 
these essentials may do much towards arresting the 
disease. 

In the treatment of this disease, too much stress cannot 
be laid upon the diet, habits and surroundings of the 
patient; as the disease is essentially one of debility, affect¬ 
ing not only his nutrition, but also the revivification of the 
blood, by the atmospheric air, it is all important, in the 
process of cure, that these two indications be fully met. 
Hence the patient should have a diet the most nourishing 
and easily digested possible, such as cream, milk if it 
agrees; good bread, not too new; good fresh butter; pudd¬ 
ings of Indian wheat, rye, oatmeal or rice; all succulent 
and ripe fruits in their season, unless they produce diarrhea. 
Use meat and meat soups, without spices; in moderation; 
beef, mutton, poultry, venison, game, small birds. For 
beverage, cold water, cocoa, black tea, once or twice per 
day. Alcoholic Stimulants,, either wine or spirits, should 


DISEASE AND TREAMENT.—DISEASES OF THE AIR PASSAGES. 325 

be used very sparingly, or not at all. Egg Nogg or Milk 
Punch may be given in cases of great weakness but not in 
greater quantity than actually needed. 

The apartment of the patient should be high, dry, large 
and airy, and the temperature in winter or rough weather 
kept as uniform as possible, or at least, free from extremes, 
and he should have all the out-door air possible. If the 
patient is sufficiently vigorous, walking and horseback 
exercises are best; but in general, daily or constant rides 
in carriage are the preferable modes, and of these, in good 
weather, the patient can scarcely have to much up to the 
point of fatigue. Changes of location wheather South or 
North, inland or seaward, are always beneficial, provided 
we do not leave home comforts for the vexations and 
exposures almost necessarily incident to travel. 

Not alone the lungs, but every tissue and organ of the 
body may become infected by the tubercle bacillus, and 
become the seat of tubercular disease. The condition 
commonly known as Scrofula is a general manifestation 
of tuberculosis. Marasmus in children may be mentioned. 
The bones and joints as in the well known hip joint disease 
of children, the enlargement of the glands of the neck 
amoung the young, are nearly always tuberculosis, and 
many other diseased conditions formerly attributed to other 
causes are now known to be tuberculosis. There is a 
growing belief amoung physicians that tuberculosis is 
primarily a disease of childhood; that the initial infection 
occurs during infancy and remains latent in the system 
until some lowering of vitality at a later period of life 
developes the disease. 

All these tubercular conditions call for constitutional 
treatment; plenty of fresh air and nourishing food, with 
the best hygenic surroundings. 


Diseases of the Circulatory System 


ANGINA PECTOEIS.— {Breast-Pang). 

This consists of sudden, severe paroxysms of pain, om 
spasm, of an enfeebled or diseased heart, with a constricted, 
burning sensation, and intense anxiety, chiefly occurring in 
persons past the middle of age. It is also most common 
among literary men, or those subject to long continued 
mental effort, anxiety or disquietude. It is not always 
manifested in the same manner or with the same symptoms. 
The first attack most commonly comes on during walking, 
or some severe effort; but afterwards the most trivial exer¬ 
cise, excitement, or mental effort, or even indigestible food. 
Will produce them; and they finally come on suddenly with¬ 
out any assignable cause, and even while in bed and asleep. 
The pains are, in most instances, severe and sometimes ex¬ 
cruciating, at first confined to the chest, but afterwards ex¬ 
tending to the shoulders, and sometimes along both the 
upper extremities. These paroxysms frequently terminate 
in a few minutes, leaving the patient comparatively free, 
and return again at uncertain intervals; while in other 
cases, they last some hours, or indeed, rarely leave the 
patient free from severe pain. In severe cases, the suffer¬ 
ing is extreme; the face pale and haggard, with an ex¬ 
pression of extreme anguish; the eyes sunken; nose pointed; 
surface cold, and even cold clammy sweats; respiration diffi¬ 
cult and rapid; palpitation or intermitting pulsation of the 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DIS. OF THE CIRCULATORY SYSTEM. 327 


heart; anxiety or feeling of approaching death; the pulse 
may be quick, strong and irregular, with hot skin and 
flushed face, but is most frequently slow, feeble, oppressed 
and remittent. Sometimes the attack passes off, leaving no 
trace, but commonly soreness about the chest remains for 
quite a period, and the digestion is more or less impaired. 
The duration and result of the disease are uncertain, and 
the pathological conditions upon which it is founded, vary 
in different cases. 

Treatment. — For stout, plethoric, full-fed persons, the 
No. One is most efficient, and should be resorted to at 
once, and may be given, dissolved in a spoonful of water, 
in doses of six pellets, repeated every half hour, or even 
every ten minutes, if the suffering is severe. Should the 
patient not be relieved after an hour, give No. Thirty-two 
in the same manner, and repeat at intervals of half an hour 
until relief is afforded. For any remaining suffering, give 
the No. One and No. Thirty-two, in alternation, at 
intervals of one, two or three hours, according to the 
urgency of the case. 

To prevent a repetition of the attack, give the No. 
Thirty-two, six pellets at a dose, morning and night, 
either dry on the tongue or dissolved in water, as may be 
most convenient. 

CARDITIS —ENDOCARDITIS—PERICARDITIS.— {In¬ 
flammation of the subdance of the heart; inflammation of the 
lining membrane of the heart; and inflammation of the investing 
membrane of the heart). 

The non-professional reader w T ould be unable to dis¬ 
tinguish the differences between these three forms of disease, 
and would find it impossible to base a treatment upon them. 
He can at best only expect to ascertain that some portion 
of the heart is the subject of disease, and to apply general 


328 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


remedies adapted for its cure in the absence of competent 
medical aid. In some cases the symptoms are, at least for 
a time, masked and insidious, and in others more decided 
and marked; but in general we may conclude that some 
form of inflammatory disease of the heart exists, from the 
presence of the following symptoms:— 

Sharp, burning, prickling or darting pains in the region 
of the heart, attended with fever, and shooting to the left 
shoulder and shoulder blade; frequently along the arm. 
They are aggravated by deep inspiration, and are increased 
by pressure on the spaces between the ribs in the region of 
the heart. The patient cannot lie on the left side, but finds 
the position easiest on the back; breathing is rapid, irregu¬ 
lar and laborious, especially on movement; a feeling of con¬ 
traction, restlessness, anxiety and frequent faintness. The 
pulse is accelerated; at times hard, full and vibratory; then 
again, feeble, irregular or intermittent; while if the ear is 
applied to the region of the heart, its action will be found 
to be tremulous and violent; sometimes again it is found to 
be muffled, veiled and indistinct, indicating an effusion of 
lymph within the pericardium or investing membrane of 
the heart. Sometimes the sounds seem double, prolonged, 
rough, or even blowing or grating, from defective action of 
the valves. In all cases, the impulse of the heart against 
the walls of the chest will be found more violent than in 
health. If extensive effusion has taken place around the 
heart, the extremities will generally become cedematous or 
enlarged. 

Treatment.— So far as it can be conducted without 
competent professional aid, consists in the No. One 
and No. Thirty-two. They should be given alternately, 
dissolved in water, twelve pellets in six large spoonfuls, 
of which give a spoonful, at intervals of from one 
to three hours, according to the urgency of the symptoms, 
After the more immediate attack has passed, the Ne, 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DIS. OF THE CIRCULATORY SYSTEM. 329 


Thirty-Two should be continued for some time, repeated 
four times per day, to remove and correct any remaining 
morbid action. 

In case of effusion within the pericardium, indicated by 
oedema of the extremities or predominant suffocative sen¬ 
sation, the Number Twenty-Five may be given with 
advantage, repeated every two hours, six pellets in water. 

PALPITATION, AND UtKEGULAEITY OF THE 
ACTION OF THE HEAET. 

In health, we are scarcely sensible of the heart’s beat; 
the perfection of action, therefore, is indicated by entire un¬ 
consciousness that such action exists at all. When, how^ 
ever, the pulsations of the heart become much increased 
in force or frequency, or both, the unpleasant sensation 
known as “ Palpitation ” is experienced. Palpitation is 
evidence of a want of balance between the blood to be 
driven and the power of the heart to drive it. It is not, 
then, evidence of excessive power, but that the muscular 
power has been taxed and found unequal to the demand. 
“It is laboriousness, not excessive power, that is indicated by 
Palpitation ” (Fother gill ). 

We infer Palpitation to be caused by functional disorder, 
(as of Indigestion) when it occurs only occasionally, and 
when the action of the heart is uniform during the inter¬ 
vals. It is often observed, that patients with serious or¬ 
ganic disease of the heart rarely suspect anything radically 
wrong until the disease has made considerable advances; 
while patients with mere functional disorder of that organ 
frequently entertain the gravest apprehension. Most cases 
of Palpitation are from functional disorder and not from 
structural disease, and are consequently quite curable. 

Causes. — Predisposing. — A nervous temperament; Hy¬ 
steria: a full habit; and disease of the heart. Exciting .— 


330 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


Excessive joy, grief, fear, and other mental emotions; severe 
or prolonged exertions; profuse discharges; menstrual de¬ 
rangements; a disordered — especially an overloaded— 
stomach; flatulence, etc. Whenever the heart is acting 
under disadvantageous circumstances, Palpitation is never 
long absent. Thus any cause, (such as too full a meal; or 
pregnancy, during the later months) which, by pressure on 
the diaphragm, diminishes the space for the heart and im¬ 
pedes its beat, places the heart at a disadvantage, and Palpi¬ 
tation takes the place of the normal quiet contraction. The 
excessive use of tea is one of the common causes of irregu¬ 
larities of the heart’s action in weak or nervous women; in 
some persons Palpitation follows tobacco-smoking, as it 
may also result from the administration of other deleterious 
agents. In such cases, of course, a cure can only be ex¬ 
pected after the discontinuance of the noxious substance. 
There are also other cases in which it depends upon organic 
changes in the structure of the heart itself, its valvular 
apparatus, or the large vessels immediately connected with 
it, and where the use of medicine can have but a subordi¬ 
nate effect in relieving it. 

Table of the Chief Differences between Organic and 
Functional Diseases of the Heart. 

Organic. —Palpitation usually comes on slowly and insidiously; 
though more marked at one time than another, is constant; elicits in¬ 
creased extent and degree of dulness in the region of the heart; Lividity 
of the lips and cheeks, congested countenance, and dropsy of the 
lower extremities, are often present. The action of the heart is not 
necessarily quickened. Palpitation often not much complained of by 
the patient, but occasionally attended with severe pain extending to the 
left shoulder and arm (see “Angina Pectoris”); is increased by exercise, 
stimulants, and tonics, but relieved by rest. Is more common in the 
male than the female. 

Functional.— Palpitation generally sets in suddenly; is not constant, 
having perfect intermissions, dulness in the region of A he heart is not 
extended beyond the natural limits; no lividity of the lip* and cheeks, 
countenance often chlorotic, and, except in extreme cases, there is no 
dropsy. The action of the heart is generally quickened. Palpitation 
much complained of by the patient, often with pain in the left side; is 
increased by. edentary occupations, but relieved by moderate exercise, 
Is more common in the female than the male. 


DISEASE aND TREATMENT.—DIS. OF THE CIRCULATORY SYSTEM. 331 

Treatment. —In general, a dose of six pellets of No. One, 
repeated every hour, if need be, speedily removes it. 
Should the No. One fail, the No. Thirty-two may be 
resorted to in like manner, and will rarely fail to afford 
relief. Should the palpitation arise from indigestion, that 
complaint being relieved by No. Ten, the palpitation or 
irregular action of the heart will cease, or may be speedily 
controlled by the No. Thirty-two. When it arises in 
connection with scanty, delayed or interrupted menses, the 
No. Eleven, six pellets, four times per day, will relieve. 

Accessory Meastres. —The patient must avoid mental 
excitement, stimulants, coffee, sleeping-draughts, indi¬ 
gestible food, etc, Pure air; cola water, used internally 
and externally; regular, moderate exercise in the open air, 
short of inducing fatigue; a contented and tranquil dis¬ 
position, with light and nourishing diet, are excellent 
auxiliaries in the treatment of this affection. 

CHRONIC DISEASE OF THE HEART. 

There are various organic (or structural) alterations of 
the heart or some portions of it, or of its complicated appa¬ 
ratus, (such as enlargements in various directions, thicken¬ 
ing or thinning of its walls, defects of its valvular structure, 
aneurism or dilatation of its larger vessels, etc.), all of which 
give rise to various symptoms and inconveniences, and are 
more or less critical, according to the nature of the case. 
With some of these cardiac changes, the patient lives on for 
years and with ease, and scarcely suffers more than incon- 
' venience; while others have a constant sense of oppression, 
shortness of breath at exercise, mounting stairs or mental 
emotion, constant palpitation or labored action of the heart, 
difficulty in lying with the head low; and, not unfrequently, 
pain in the region of the heart or chest, or along the left 
arm. 


832 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


It would be impracticable here to describe these various 
cases and the treatment appropriate to each, and such had 
best be submitted to competent medical examination. 
But in the absence of a good Homeopathic physician, the 
patient may take with great relief and often with permanent 
advantage, the No. Thirty-two, six pellets at a time, and 
may repeat them two, three or more times per day, accord¬ 
ing to the urgency of the case. 

VARICOSE VEINS. 

Frequently, the veins, especially of the lower extremities, 
become enlarged, knotted, dark-blue, or purple, sometimes 
the size of the finger or larger, and are termed varicose 
veins. They are very apt to occur in women during preg¬ 
nancy, and in men of hemorrhoidal or venous habit of 
body, and especially in those who are obliged to stand 
much. The varicose veins are generally painless, but 
sometimes are attended with burning, shooting or stinging 
pains, and at times terminate in indolent, obstinate ulcers. 
Occasionally they occasion general dropsical swelling of the 
Jimbs. 

Treatment. —If the varices are not specially trouble 
fcfome, bathing them at night with Humphreys’ Marvel 
Witch Hazel will allay any pain or irritation, and the 
No. Thirty-two, six pellets, may be taken morning and 
night. 

For their radical cure and removal, an elastic stocking 
should be worn from the arch of the foot well up over the 
enlarged veins, and each morning and night the part should 
be bathed in Humphreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel; or, yet 
better, a cloth wet with the same and laid on over the 
enlarged veins, and the stocking turned over that, and so 
worn, while the medicine above directed may be taken 
internally. This course will promptly relieve and ultimate¬ 
ly restore even the most formidable cases. 


Diseases of the Alimentary Track. 

SOEE THEOAT. 

Simple soreness, or swelling of the throat, uncomplicated 
by ulceration, or quinsy. 

Cause.— Catarrh; the sore throat being a simple extension 
of the catarrhal affection. This disease should not be 
neglected, as it is apt, in some persons, to degenerate into 
more troublesome forms. 

Treatment. —See Tonsillitis. 

TONSILLITIS.—( Quinsy). 

This disease is an acute inflammation of the tonsil or 
tonsils and adjoining mucous membrane of the throat, and 
quite common, some persons being subject to it from the 
slightest provocation or exposure. It usually commences 
with a feeling of tightness or constriction, or a sensation 
of a lump or plug in the throat, and some soreness, parti¬ 
cularly in the act of swallowing; as the disease progresses, 
swallowing becomes more painful and difficult; the root of 
the tongue, the tonsils, the curtains of the palate, and ad¬ 
joining soft parts, become swelled, red and painful. There 
is considerable thirst, fever, pulse quick and strong; the 
tongue becomes coated and breath offensive; heat of sur- 
iace, red cheeks; eyes sometimes inflamed; headache, and 
even delirium. Sometimes the throat is so swelled that 
swallowing becomes almost impossible, the fluid returning 


334 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


through the nose, and the throat, where it can be seen, k 
the seat of more or less extensive ulceration. In some 
cases this is superficial, and confined to slight suppuration 
of the tonsils; in others abscesses are formed in the tonsil, 
and the discharge, when it occurs, is quite extensive. If 
taken in time and properly treated, the disease disappears 
by resolution, otherwise it yields only when the abscess 
breaks. It more commonly affects only one side or one 
tonsil, sometimes passing over to the other, and is more 
serious when both are involved, Though not generally 
dangerous, it is in some cases, and in particular epidemics, 
liable to assume a putrid character with typhoid symptoms, 
and is then a serious malady. 

Chronic Enlargement of the Tonsils. —Repeated attacks 
of acute Inflammation, or partially-cured attacks, are 
followed by chronic enlargement and induration, causing 
difficult swallowing; hoarse voice, noisy and laborious 
breathing, especially during sleep; affections of the ears, 
arising from an extension of the disease along the mucous 
membrane; and extreme liability, from slight causes, to a 
frequent recurrence of acute inflammation. Excision of 
these enlarged tonsils, though often practiced, is not to be 
recommended, unless in very extreme cases where the ton¬ 
sils have become so large and hard, that the inconvenience 
or suffering from them will not admit of further delay. 
But, generally, persistent Homeopathic medication will re¬ 
duce them. 

Causes. —The predisposing are—a rheumatic condition, 
abuse of mercury, disorders of the digestive organs, and 
previous attacks of Quinsy. The exciting are—atmospheric 
changes, wet feet, etc. Quinsy is most frequent in ple¬ 
thoric persons, between fourteen and twenty, and is liable 
to recur for several years, unless preventive means are 
adopted. 

Treatment. —At the commencement, when there Is con- 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DIS. OF THE ALIMENTARY TRACK. 33b 


siderable heat, fever and pain on swallowing, the No. One, 
two pellets, should be given every hour, in a spoonful of 
water, for two or three times, and then the No. Thirty- 
four should be prepared in the same manner, twelve 
pellets in six spoonfuls of water, and one spoonful be given 
every hour from the two medicines, in alternation, and 
so continued until the disease yields; only as the amend' 
ment progresses, the intervals between the doses may be 
prolonged to two hours, and finally to three or more. 
When there is simple soreness of the throat and pain on 
swallowing, without fever, the No. Thirty-four may be 
used from the first, and exclusively. In some cases, where 
the disease may have gone on to suppuration, and the dis¬ 
charge has taken place, and the pain and difficulty of 
swallowing diminished, only the ulcerative process is slow 
to heal, the No. Twenty-two and Twenty-three may be 
given in alternation, in doses of six pellets, four times per 
day, until entire restoration. 

In Chronic Enlargement of the tonsils, especially of 
children, No. Thirty-five, six pellets each morning, and 
No. Thirty-four before dinner, supper and on going to 
bed, will, in reasonable time, remove the difficulty. Some¬ 
times, in old cases, we give No. Thirty-five in the morning, 
and No. Twenty-two, at night, six pellets at a dose. 

Accessory Means. —The constant sucking of ice during 
the commencement of an acute attack, moderates the heat 
and pain, and checks the secretion of mucus, which gives 
rise to disagreeable and painful efforts to detach. In severe 
cases ice may be employed in this manner till the disease 
has abated. When ice is not procurable, or admissible, the 
next most effectual local application is the steam of hot 
water, and equally so wheather the object be to bring about 
resolution or to facilitate the suppurative process. It act? 


336 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


as a fomentation, and removes the mucus from the crypts 
and follicles of the tonsils. 

In some cases a warm milk-and-water gargle, frequently 
used, will be found useful and soothing; or, in severe 
attacks, a hot poultice may be applied across the throat, 
extending nearly to each ear; in mild attacks the throat- 
compress may be used. The patient should remain indoors , 
and in bad cases in bed. The air of the patient’s apart¬ 
ment should be maintained at a temperature of about 65° 
or 70°, and be kept moist by the evaporation of hot water 
from shallow dishes near the bed; but proper ventilation 
should also be preserved. 

Humphreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel used as a gargle for 
ihe throat and as a spray by the means of an atomizer to 
nasal and air-passages will be found beneficial. 

RELAXED UVULA .—(Dropped Palate). 

This is a very common and trifling complaint; yet 
sufficiently annoying to deserve notice in a work of this 
kind. It proceeds generally from a relaxation of the 
tissues of the throat and pharynx, dependant on some 
digestive irregularity; and is easily remedied by the use 
of No. Thirty-four, three or four times a day, a dose of 
six pellets. 


DIPHTHERIA. 

Diphtheria is a highly infectious disease occurring chiefly 
among children and young persons, although adults are 
by no means free from contracting the disease. It is 
conveyed from one person to another by personal contact 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-DIS. OF THE ALIMENTARY TRACK. 337 


or by food, clothing, or by any article that may carry the 
germ from the infected patient. It usually occurs in 
epidemic form, in a certain locality and rapidly spreads 
from a given center of infection to the surrounding 
community. Sporadic cases often occur, yet in every 
case the germ has been conveyed by some undetected 
means from some originally infected patient. 

The micro-organism or germ producing diphtheria is 
known as Klebs-Loeffler Bacillus. The bacilli attack the 
mucous or lining membrane of the throat, mouth, nasal 
passages, and the vocal chords and in many instances the 
windpipe and air-passages. Invading these tissues they 
multiply rapidly. 

Diphtheria is characterized by an exudation of lymph 
on the lining of the mouth, fauces, and upper part of the 
air-passages, or, occasionally, on an abraded portion of 
the skin, attended with great general prostration and 
sometimes remarkable nervous phenomena. Sometimes 
Diphtheria is a light and easily-managed disease, while at 
others it is terribly fatal and runs its desolating course, 
paying but little attention to the best medical means 
devised for its arrest. Hence, every head of a family 
should be able to recognize its earlier symptoms and in an 
emergency to apply the most approved medicines for its 
cure. But it is one of these diseases which should rarely 
be entrusted to the care of even intelligent laymen, in an 
emergency, or in the absence of a competent Homeopathic 
physician. In all severe cases, as soon as the nature of 
the disease is known, it should be handed over to the 
most skillful medical attendant, and his directions 
followed with fidelity. 


338 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


Its earlier symptoms are like those of some other dis¬ 
eases, especially simulating mumps or scarlet fever. In 
the simple variety, happily the most common, the symp¬ 
toms are at first so mild as to excite little complaint, 
beyond slight difficulty of swallowing, or pain in the 
throat, burning skin, pains in the limbs, etc. The child 
is at first languid and uneasy, with a pulse quickened 
but not extremely full, and is restless, without much 
appetite. These symptoms m:.y continue for some days 
without any appearance of inflammation of the throat or 
fauces. Malignant diphtheria is ushered in with severe 
fever, rigors, vomiting, or purging, sudden, great prostra¬ 
tion and restlessness, anxious countenance, etc, pointing to 
some overwhelming disease, under which the system is 
laboring. The skin is hot, the face flushed, the throat 
sore, and the mucous membrane bright-red; the tonsils 
are swollen, and grey or white patches of deposit appear 
on them, small at first, but gradually enlarging, so that 
one patch merges into another, forming a false membrane 
in the throat, rendering swallowing and even breathing 
difficult. Should the evacuations be examined at this 
period, the stools will be frequently found covered with 
mucus, and the urine loaded with albuminous matter; 
severe periodical pains in the limbs are also present. An 
examination of the throat, which is in many instances a 
very difficult matter, owing to the patient’s inability to 
sufficiently open the mouth, will exhibit patches of mem¬ 
branous exudation quite small, often at first not larger 
than a split pea, whitish , or of a yellowish or tawny hue , 
deposited mostly in the irregularities of tonsils, or in the 
arch of the palate or in both, and the tonsils are at times 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DIS. ON TflE ALIMENTARY TRACK. 339 


enormously swollen. Salivation, which may have com¬ 
menced earlier in the progress of the disease, continues; 
the pulse is quick and the prostration of the system 
decided. If, under the influence of the proper remedies, 
the disease is arrested and convalescence begins, it will be 
manifested by a sense of ease and quiet, refreshing 
slumber and free perspiration; diminution of the swollen 
glands; arrest of the membranous formation, and the 
gradual disappearance of that already existing; slower 
pulse and returning appetite. 

In some cases, as the disease progresses, there may bo 
no farther increase of the exudation in the throat, but a 
watery fluid is discharged from the nose; the eye becomes 
brighter, and countenance anxious; the breathing is 
labored and rattling, and worse when the patient attempts 
to sleep; the voice is impaired; the exudation has in¬ 
creased and even reached the roof of the mouth, with 
increasing prostration. Such cases are very severe, yet 
some from even this stage have recovered. 

As the disease progresses, the difficult, stridulous 
breathing increases, and a hollow, croupy, metallic, 
whistling cough shows that the larynx is invaded. The 
discharge from the nose continues, and fluids taken into 
the mouth return by the nose. The cheeks have a pale, 
ashen hue, and there are some mottled or slightly con¬ 
gested spots. Periodical and severe pains occur in the 
limbs; hemorrhage from the nose and mouth may be very 
troublesome; and new and large patches of the exudation 
may be found upon the fauces. The difficulty of respir¬ 
ation increases, the patient grasps at the neck or clothing 
in the vain attempt to get air; the blueness of the face 


340 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


and surface increases, and death comes to close the scene. 
Or in some cases the swelling of the glands subside, the 
false membrane disappears from sight, and the patient 
sinks from the effects of constitutional poisoning, and 
ultimately dies with scarcely a sigh or a groan. 

That form of diphtheria in past years commonly known 
as membranous croup differs from the above mentioned, 
only as the seat of the disease is situated lower down in 
the larynx and air-passages, hence giving rise in it J 
earlier stages to somewhat different symptoms. It must 
be borne in mind that diphtheria and membranous croup 
is one and the same disease caused by the same micro¬ 
organism and should be subject to the same treatment. 

Children from fifteen months to five or seven years of 
age are most subject to it. The child may be considered 
only slightly unwell for several days, with little or no cough , 
or a mild , veiled cough, but the speech is changed and is a 
hoarse whispering , or is entirely lost , and in these cases the 
difficulty of breathing comes on very gradually, and may 
not be noticed except on careful observation, or when the 
child is making some effort. Such insidious cases are 
always dangerous and often fatal, and this symptom of 
loss of voice or whispering voice in children should always 
demand attention. It generally marks the deposition or 
formation of the false membrane, and requires only its 
continued deposition to become fatal. 

Diphtheria is often found associated with Scarlet Fever. 
The two diseases often co-exist in the same locality and 
the susceptibility to one increases the susceptibility to 
the other, hence we may find a double infection, and 
the resulting disease will display symptoms characteristic 
of the two diseases. 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DIS. OF THE ALIMENTARY TRACK. 341 


It usually commences with shivering, followed by heat; 
and, from the first, there is decided languor and prostra¬ 
tion; some oppression in breathing; nausea, and often, 
repeated vomiting and sometimes purging; eyes inflamed 
and watery; cheeks deep red color; tonsils become 
inflamed, throat bright red color and much swelled; thin 
acrid discharge from the tonsils and throat, which exco¬ 
riates the nose and lips; pulse weak, small and irregular, 
and scarcely perceptible; tongue white and moist, and 
swallowing very difficult. This condition soon changes, 
and ulcerations, varying in size and situation, appear 
upon the tonsils and surrounding soft parts, which, on 
inspection, are seen to be swollen and livid. These 
ulcerations may extend over the curtains of the palate and 
forward into the posterior portion of the mouth, or back 
down into the windpipe, and assume a sloughing or de¬ 
composed appearance as they increase in magnitude. 
After some hours, the symptoms of the false membrane , 
like “ wash-leather , ’ 5 in the throat, soft palate and uvula appear. 
The prostration of strength becomes more decided; the 
lips and teeth are covered with sordes or blackish incrusta¬ 
tions; the breath becomes very offensive; there is more or 
less delirium; the countenance becomes sunken and there 
is some purging. Sometimes the entire neck becomes 
swelled and livid, and in some very severe cases livid 
spots or petechise make their appearance on the surface of 
the body. Extreme prostration, bleedings from the nose 
and mouth, and weak, fluttering, intermittent pulse, 
mark the extreme violence and dangerous character of the 
disease. 

When, about the third or fourth day a gentle perspira- 


342 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


tion breaks out, and the sloughs are thrown off so as to 
leave a clean, healthy surface upon the ulcers in the 
throat, and the countenance brightens up, and the 
respiration and pulse become more natural, a favorable 
termination may be anticipated. 

The premonitory symptoms of mumps—chilliness, 
fever, languor and want of appetite—are similar to those 
of diphtheria, and the swelling of the parotid and 
neighboring glands of the neck much the same. The 
characteristic distinction lies in the presence of the false 
membrane before mentioned in the throat, and the hollow, 
barking, croupy cough, and difficult stridulous breathing, 
especially during sleep, and the extreme depression of 
strength, which mark true diphtheria. 

Treatment. —This disease formerly the dread of all 
physicians, and a veritable scourge in our cities and in 
other localities during its prevalence, has been robbed of 
its terrors through the introduction about twenty years 
ago of the antitoxin treatment. First perfected by Behring 
it has been successfully used throughout the civilized world 
and has reduced the mortality of from 60% to less than 
8 ®o, and in many localities the percentages have been even 
less. It is essential that the injection of the antitoxin be 
made as early as possible and should be resorted to in 
every case, even in suspected cases where the disease has 
not been fully determined. 4,000 or 5,000 units should 
be injected in mild cases, and at least 10,000 units in 
severe cases. All children exposed to the disease, nurses 
handling the patient, and others brought in contact with 
the case should receive 1,000 units as a preventive. The 
ialse membrane of the throat, mouth and nostrils 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-DIS. OF THE ALIMENTARY TRACK. 343 


should be swabed or cleansed with Hydrogen peroxide— 
Humphreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel will be found most 
beneficial when used as a spray by means of an atomizer. 

From the early stages of the disease give No. One and 
No. Thirty-four. Dissolve twelve pellets in six desert 
spoonfuls of water, each in separate glasses, and administer 
in alternation every hour two teaspoonfuls. Use Hum¬ 
phreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel in cleansing throat and 
nasal passages as often as practicable. 

Accessory Treatment. —Warm Vapor .—The temperature 
of the room should be maintained at 68° Fahr., and the 
atmosphere made moist by the steam from a kettle with a 
long spout constantly boiling on the fire. Such an atmo¬ 
sphere is easily secured by forming a tent with blanket? 
over the bed, and then bringing a pipe to convey the 
steam under it. 

Warm baths ,—are valuable accessories. The skin is hot 
and dry, the urine is often suppessed, the bowels confined, 
and thus the poison is retained in the system. Warm 
baths and the free use of cold water as a beverage, often 
restore the functions of the skin, the bowels, and the 
bladder. 

Ice ,—as recommended in Quinsy. 

Diet, etc.—From the very commencement of the disease 
the strength of the patient must be well sustained by 
nourishment, and he must be urged to swallow it in spite 
of the pain, which it occasions. Eggs beaten up in milk, 
or in brandy with water and sugar; beef-tea slightly 
thickened with rice or pearl-barley; arrowroot or sago, 
with port or sherry; sudden, extreme prostration requires 
wine or brandy. 


344 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


Children who persistently refuse to swallow, must have 
nutritive injections in bad cases; such as the yolk of an 
egg beaten up with a tablespoonful of new milk, and two 
teaspoonfuls of fresh essence of rennet, or an ounce of ex¬ 
tract of beef v/ith a scruple of pepsine. Injections (about 
one ounce at a time) should be commenced, if necessary, 
immediately after the true character of the disease is recog¬ 
nized, and repeated every two to four hours. 

Convalescence. —Much caution and patience are 
required during convalescence, as relapses are prone to 
occur. Nourishing diet, rest, and change of air, are of 
great utility. Nothing does so much good as a thorough 
change of air. 

All discharges from the patient must be thoroughly 
disinfected and clothing, bed linen, etc., sterilized. 


PHARYNGITIS .—(Relaxed Throat—Ulcerated Throat — 
Clergyman's Sore Throat). 

These affections are of a similar nature, and require 
similar treatment. 

Symptoms. —The patient first complains of an uneasy sen¬ 
sation in the upper part of the throat, with a frequent dis¬ 
position to swallow, as if something existed there which 
could thus be removed. If proper treatment be not adopted, 
the voice soon undergoes a change; it becomes feeble and 
hoarse, and sometimes, especially towards the evening, 
there is complete loss of voice. The patient complains of 
pain in the larynx, and makes frequent efforts to clear the 
throat of phlegm by coughing and spitting. On looking 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-DIS. OF THE ALIMENTARY TRACK. 345 


into the throat the parts are found to have an unhealthy 
appearance, being raw and granular, and the mucous 
follicles filled with a yellowish substance; a viscid muco« 
purulent secretion may also be seen adhering to the palate 
and adjacent parts. 

Causes.— This condition is probably most often induced 
by the exercise of the organ of voice when in an inflamed 
state. An extension of the affection is almost certain to re¬ 
sult from exercising the voice during an attack of sore 
throat or hoarseness, as the muscles of the larynx lose their 
nutrition through extension of the morbid materials from the 
inflamed mucous membrane. The disease may also result 
from an immoderate or irregular exercise of the voice; or, it 
may follow inflammatory disease of the bronchial tubes or 
lungs, by much exercise of the voice before recovery has 
taken place. It is also occasioned by an unnatural style or 
tone of reading or speaking, as with preachers and military 
officers. 

Accessory and preventive Means. — 1. Perfect rest —An 
inflamed larynx, like an inflamed joint, always demands 
a state of almost complete rest. As a preventive remedy 
in the case of clergymen, we would strongly urge the 
general adoption of Monday as a day of out-of-door recrea¬ 
tion and cessation from all work, and thus compensate for 
the great mental and physical expenditure involved in the 
discharge of the duties of an earnest minister of the gospel 
on the Sunday. 

2. The throat compress .—When this is applied, the patient 
should retire, and he will generally have the satisfaction of 
finding his throat-difficulty much relieved in the morning. 
In more obstinate cases, the compress should be worn in 
the day-time, being frequently re-wet. When discontinued, 
throat and chest should be bathed with cold water, followed 
by drying and brisk friction. The beard and moustaches 
should be permitted to grow, as they afford an excellent 


M 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOK. 


protection to tlie tliroat, especially in the case of barristers, 
clergymen, public singers, and others subjected to the un¬ 
due or irregular exercise of the organ of voice. 

Treatment. —Same as for Laryngitis, page 305. 

SCURVY OF THE MOUTH .—(Canker sore mouth). 

This affection manifests itself in various forms, sometimes 
being quite severe and obstinate, and at others, more in¬ 
convenient and painful than dangerous. It occasionally 
occurs in ill-fed, tuberculous children, from two to six years 
old, especially in low damp situations. In some cases the 
gums become hot, red and very sensitive; they swell, become 
spongy, and shrink from the teeth, leaving them loose, and 
the gums readily bleeding at the slightest injury; the breath 
becomes offensive, and sometimes there is discharge of 
tough, sanious phlegm and saliva; mastication may become 
difficult from the loose, sensitive teeth, and deglutition 
painful from the soreness of the throat; the glands of the 
throat sometimes swell and become painful, and there is 
often great prostration and a torpid, feverish condition of 
the system. 

In other cases the disease is principally manifested by 
apthous ulcers appearing upon the gums, the tongue, or the 
inside of the lips and cheeks, attended with a painful, burn¬ 
ing, smarting sensation, and at times free flow of saliva, 
and a feverish, prostrated condition of the system. This 
form is very common with nursing mothers, and is often 
very painful and lingering, apparently arising from an ex¬ 
hausted or debilitated condition of the system and defective 
nutrition. 

Treatment. —In general, the Number Twenty-nine 
will be sufficient for all forms of sore mouth or apthous ul¬ 
cerations in the mouth. It may conveniently be given, two 
pellets at a dose, dissolved in a spoonful of water, and ad' 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-—DIS. OF THE ALIMENTARY TRACK. 347 


ministered four times per day, before meals and on retiring 
at. night. 

In a prostrated or debilitated condition of the system, 
the No. Twenty-four may be given to advantage, in 
alternation with No. Twenty-nine, at the intervals before 
directed. Sometimes a weak solution of borax and water, 
may be used to advantage for rinsing the mouth. Some¬ 
times the mouth may be rinsed with a weak solution of 
brandy and water, with benefit in bad cases with debilitated 
subjects. Care should be exercised in regard to diet 
When the disease exists in a bad form, with extensive in¬ 
flammation of the mouth or gums, stimulants and animal 
food, even in soups, should be avoided, and the diet con¬ 
fined to farinaceous or vegetable forms of food. In cases 
of nursing sore mouth, a glass of ale morning and night 
may be used with advantage in connection with the 
remedies mentioned. 

ANOREXIA .—(Want of appetite). 

This may arise from various causes more or less in* 
timately connected with the process of digestion, such as 
derangement of the stomach, inaction of the liver, results of 
over-eating, irregularity of meals, eating between meals, 
late hours and too little out-of-door exercise, indigestion, 
etc. This morbid condition should be relieved in order 
that the natural desire for food should be manifested. 
When it seems to arise from a debilitated condition of the 
entire system, some stimulants, such as light wine or malt 
liquors may be taken with advantage. Loss of appetite 
during acute disease or a weakened state of the system, 
should be respected; for thrusting food into the stomach in 
spite of its dictates, will generally give rise to more serious 
symptoms. Sometimes instead of loss of appetite there is 
voracious or depraved appetite; these symptoms are usually 


348 


HOMEOPATHIC! MENTOR. 


associated with Chlorosis, nervous irritation from worm*, 
etc.; they can only be removed by correcting the condition 
on which they depend. A glass of cold water taken morning 
and night is often beneficial in promoting an appetite. 
Aside from these measures, the Number Ten, taken 
four times per day, six pellets before each meal, and at 
night, will generally be found efficacious. 

GASTRIC DERANGEMENT. — ( Indigestion — Biliousness). 

We distinguish this affection from chronic dyspepsia and 
from jaundice. It is very common and liable to come on 
suddenly, from irregularities in diet, over-eating, or par¬ 
taking of heavy, rich, over-stimulating food, or food un¬ 
suited to the existing condition of the digestive organs; 
excessive use of wines, spirits, or strong malt liquors, or 
strong tea or coffee; eating too rapidly; irregularities in 
taking meals; too long fasting between meals; want of exer¬ 
cise; intense mental application; late hours, or from excesses 
of any kind. When the tone of the stomach has been weak¬ 
ened by purgatives, and in persons of naturally feeble di¬ 
gestion, this condition may be readily provoked by any 
transient violation of the ordinary regimen. 

The symptoms are usually, want of appetite or deficient 
appetite; coated tongue; flat, insipid, putrid or bitter taste 
in the mouth; desire for acid, cooling or refreshing things; 
frontal headache or heaviness of the head; dullness, stupid¬ 
ity or disposition to sleep; constipation, or sluggish, in¬ 
active bowels; and sometimes nausea, regurgitation of food, 
or vomiting of food and bile. 

Treatment. —In general, little or no food should be taken 
into the stomach while the nausea and indisposition to food 
continues; only after these symptoms have passed away, 
should at first the more light and easily-digested food be 
given, such as water-gruel, rice-water, boiled rice, toast, o* 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DIS. OP THE ALIMENTARY TRACK. 349 

some nice ripe fruit. As medicine, the No. Ten will be 
found sufficient, taken six pellets at a time, and repeated 
every three hours, until the condition has been removed. 

Should there be fever, alternate the No. One with No. 
Ten, at the intervals mentioned, and so continue until the 
febrile symptoms have yielded. Should there be nausea 
or vomiting, interpose between the portions of No. Ten, 
two or three doses of six pellets each of No. Six, until 
that symptom has been removed. 

A glass of hot water taken one hour before each meal 
and an hour before retiring, will prove beneficial in many 
cases. 


DYSPEPSIA.—( Indigestion—Weak Stomach). 

This is one of our most common diseases, and generally 
of very obstinate and lingering character. It may arise 
from various organic changes in the organs of digestion, 
and so may likewise manifest itself in diversified forms 
from the most trivial weakness of digestion, down to grave, 
organic changes in the substance of the stomach itself. 

It may be induced or brought about by various causes, 
among which may be especially mentioned the use of ca¬ 
thartic or anodyne medicines in early life, or the habit of 
giving such drugs to infants; imperfect mastication of the 
food, in consequence of too rapid eating—a very common 
and wide-spread fault; the loss of teeth; the presence of 
decayed teeth in the mouth and the consequent swallowing 
of vitiated saliva;—habitual low spirits and desponding 
state of mind, likewise weakens and impedes digestion; too 
long fasting, inducing exhaustion of the vital powers, tends 
to impair the power of digestion; the excessive use of 
stimulants produces changes in the coats of the stomach 
which may render digestion difficult and finally impossible; 
want of exercise, sedentary habits, intense and long-con¬ 
tinued mental application may likewise be named among 
its causes. 


850 


HOMEOPATHIC! MENTOR. 


It is usually manifested by distress after eating; heaviness 
or weight in the pit of the stomach, as if a load or a stone 
lay there; tenderness of the prsecordia on pressure; inability 
to wear tight clothes; frequent headache; dullness and con¬ 
fusion of the head; bloating after eating; sometimes water- 
brash, or rising of the food and fluid into the mouth after 
eating; want of appetite; bad taste; coated tongue; flatu¬ 
lence; constipation or sluggish or torpid bowels, and not 
unfrequently, piles or hemorrhoids; palpitation of the heart; 
and nightmare. Such are among the more prominent 
symptoms by which this affection is manifested, yet they 
are frequently varied, relieved or intensified by the habits 
or food and regimen of the patient, or the intensity of the 
morbid condition. 

Flatulence, "Waterbrash, Heartburn, are merely symp¬ 
toms of dyspepsia, or of gastric derangement. Yet, they 
may either of them form the principal feature of the 
complaint, and almost exclusively occupy the attention of 
the patient. Flatulence (wind) by disturbing the stomach, 
which thus being made to encroach upon the space occupied 
by the lungs, heart or other organs, impedes their healthy 
action, and thus gives rise to disturbances in distant parts. 
It is caused by defective nerve-force, or general debility; 
food may be detained in the stomach and undergo fermen¬ 
tation, owing to imperfection or arrest of the vital and 
chemical processes characteristic of health. At other times 
flatulence is apparently generated by the mucous membrane 
of the intestinal canal; for the symptoms are very apt to 
arise in dyspeptic persons when a meal is delayed beyond 
the accustomed hour, or when the stomach is empty. 
Flatulence is often associated with faintness, nausea, palpi¬ 
tation, and other disagreeable sensations. In waterbrash 
there is a frequent rising or regurgitation of acid or taste¬ 
less watery fluid, into the mouth, from the stomach. It 
seems to arise from closure of the oesophagus (food-pipe) 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—BIS. OE THE ALIMENTARY TRACK. 

by muscular spasm, so that the trickling saliva is prevented 
from passing into the stomach, and re-ascends to the mouth 
without any effect. Sometimes this is accompanied with 
belching of air coming up with the eructation, and accom¬ 
panied with loud, unpleasant noise, and not unfrequently a 
portion of every meal is thus thrown off. There is also a 
feeling of fullness, distention, and often of pain and distress 
in the stomach and prsecordia. 

With heartburn, there is a burning or gnawing uneasiness, 
felt principally in the pit of the stomach, but often extend¬ 
ing far around or up into the chest, and down into the 
abdomen. Sometimes it is attended with anxiety, nausea, 
coldness of the extremities, debility and fever, faintness, 
and there are also sour, acrid risings, or regurgitations into 
the mouth. 

Hiccough ( singultus ) is a common accompaniment of 
heartburn, and consists of brief spasms of the oesophagus. 
In infants it is easily removed by administering a small 
quantity of milk or water. 

Nightmare (Incubus). — In this condition the patient ex¬ 
periences confused and frightful dreams, with a sense of 
weight or pressure impeding breathing and producing great 
anguish; or he fancies himself in imminent danger or diffi¬ 
culty, from which he vainly strives to extricate himself, 
until at length he succeeds in uttering a cry, or moving, 
when the distressing condition terminates. It is caused bj T 
disorder of the digestive organs, and most frequently 
follows a late, especially a heavy supper. It may also be 
induced by fatigue, or an uneasy posture in bed, or in 
children, by enlarged tonsils; sometimes the cause is 
very obscure, and requires professional examination and 
treatment. 

As these are but symptoms or phases of dyspepsia or 
gastric derangement, the same treatment is indicated. 

Treatment. —The course usually pursued by the subjects 


352 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


of this disease tends much to aggravate and prolong it. 
Because the bowels are constipated, recourse is had to 
cathartic or aperient medicines, which afford only momen¬ 
tary relief, while permanently intensifying the disease. 
Costiveness may be bad, but not half so bad as the effects 
of drugs given to remove it. Persons subject to this disease 
should be careful of their diet, and use only such food as 
experience has taught them agrees with their digestion. A 
physician can only recommend the articles most likely to 
suit, and having ascertained from experience what diet or 
kinds of food are for the time best, the diet should be com¬ 
posed of these articles, and only, by degrees as the digestion 
is improved, a more liberal bill of fare, or more questionable 
articles may be allowed. Take plenty of time for meals, 
eat moderately, and masticate the food well, using only a 
small quantity of fluid with the meal, and eat not too often, 
or too much at a time. Each night, on retiring, and in the 
morning on rising, take also a glass of cold water. Of me¬ 
dicines, the No. Ten will usually be found efficient, and 
may be taken, six pellets at a time, before each meal, and 
on retiring to rest at night. Perseverance in this course 
will rarely fail. If the bowels remain obstinately costive, 
an injection of tepid water may be taken every morning so 
long as it may be necessary. Very soon, under the influence 
of the medicine and proper food and habits, the bowels 
will act regularly. 

But with females, and delicate subjects, the No. Eleven 
may be preferable to No. Ten, or, the two may be taken 
in alternation. In obstinate cases of waterbrash , brilliant 
results often follow the free use, when hungry, or thirsty, 
of buttermilk . Eresh milk is not so Tvell borne. 

Accessory Measures. —The following points in the treat¬ 
ment and prevention of indigestion should, as far as 
possible, be adopted. 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.- DIS. OF THE ALIMENTARY TRACK. 353 


1. Mastication. —The reduction of food to a state of minute 
division in the mouth is a most essential step towards easy 
and perfect digestion. A stomach, especially a weak 
stomach, acts tardily and imperfectly upon food, introduced 
in an incomplete state of comminution. Further, food re¬ 
quires to be well masticated, that it may be duly mixed with 
saliva. The salivary secretion is intended to moisten and 
lubricate the food, and is a most essential chemical aid in 
digestion. The action of the saliva is especially necessary 
for the digestion of vegetable food; for it is only by means 
of this fluid that such articles of diet as potatoes, bread, 
rice, etc., are rendered at all capable of absorption. We 
therefore warn the busy, the studious, the solitary, or, on the 
other hand, those persons who talk too much during meal¬ 
time, of the danger of neglecting the perfect mastication 
of their food. The loss of teeth is a frequent cause of in¬ 
digestion. 

2. Overloading the stomach. —Too large a quantity of food 
interferes with digestion, 1. by so distending the stomach 
as to interfere with its necessary contractions. 2. By 
furnishing the stomach with a greater amount of food than 
can be properly saturated with the saliva supplied. After 
u long abstinence from food, as in the case of persons who 
dine late and take too little lunch, there is great danger of 
eating too much, unless the meal be taken slowly, or 
finished before the sensations of hunger are completely 
appeased. 

3. Suitable food. —See Section on Food. 

4. Beverages. —See Section on Beverages. 

5. Disposition in which to eat.—A cheerful and tranquil 
fram® of mind, especially during meals, is a most essential 
point in the treatment and cure of indigestion. Cheerful 
conversation and ease of mind favor digestion by in¬ 
creasing the secretion of gastric juice. The aliment received 
under pleasurable circumstances may be expected to furnish 


354 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


in abundance, and in the highest state of perfection, the 
secretions necessary for good digestion. 

6. General habits. —Mental or bodily occupations should 
not be resumed immediately after a full meal; nor should 
food betaken without a few minutes’ pause after exhaustive 
fatigue. Violent muscular exertions arrest digestion by 
engaging the nervous energies in other directions. The 
weary man, whether weary from the sweat of the brow or 
the sweat of the brain, should rest before he eats , and if the 
cause of fatigue has been in operation till the time of rest 
approaches, solid food might then be productive of the 
most serious results. Under such circumstances, if nourish¬ 
ment be deemed necessary, it should be limited in quantity 
and of the lightest kind, as a cup of beef-tea, cocoa, or 
chocolate, or the yolk-of-an-egg well beaten up with milk. 
We particularly recommend the general plan of dietary 
sketched in the introductory chapter for general adoption. 
Regularity in the habits of life, such as in taking food, sleep, 
exercise, etc., is an important condition in the prevention 
of dyspepsia. Feather beds, and too much sleep, should be 
avoided; the patient should retire and rise early; bathe or 
sponge the bady every morning with cold water, and take 
moderate open-air exercise daily. An occasional change of 
air and scenery exercises a wonderful influence in removing 
or preventing an attack of indigestion, diverting the mind 
from its ordinary train of thought, business and family 
anxieties, or gloomy pondering over personal ailments. 

A glass of hot water taken one hour before each meal 
and an hour before retiring will prove beneficial in many 
cases. 

GASTRALGIA.— ( Pain or spasm of the stomach ). 

This is a very painful and distressing affection of the 
stomach, arising, generally, at somewhat regular periods of 
a few weeks or months, leaving the system in the interval 
comparatively free. It consists in spasmodic pains or con¬ 
tractions of the stomach, sometimes slight, but more com- 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DIS. OF THE ALIMENTARY TRACK. 355 

moidy with almost insupportable violence; returning at 
intervals of a few moments with increasing vigor, after a 
comparative calm; the pain is most severe in the pit of the 
stomach, but often extends up into the chest and sides, or 
into the back, exciting nausea, vomiting and great anguish. 
Belching up of wind, which sometimes relieves the patient; 
faintness, coldness of the extremities, and anxiety are 
generally present. An attack may last from a few hours to 
one or two days, and it may return in some subjects, at any 
time, from very slight provocation, or at intervals of a few 
weeks or months, from slight or no apparent cause. 

The disease originates in a morbid condition of the 
nerves of the stomach, and is often associated with disease 
of the liver or spleen, or both, or in cancerous or other dis¬ 
organizations of the stomach or intestines. An attack may 
be excited by eating indigestible food, fresh bread, chest¬ 
nuts, sweetmeats, unripe fruit, cherries, figs, cheese, and in 
some cases, by taking coffee or strong tea. It may likewise, 
in gouty or rheumatic constitutions, be excited by exposure 
to cold and wet. In females it is sometimes found in con¬ 
nection with the monthly periods. In many instances the 
system seems to have acquired a predisposition to this form 
of disease, and in such subjects it masks or overshadows all 
other symptoms, and may be produced at any time from 
very slight indiscretions. 

Treatment, —As precautionary measures, persons subject 
to this form of disease should be exceedingly careful in 
re gar 1 to their diet, avoiding rich food, gravies, fresh 
bread, warm cakes, preserves and cheese, or any article of 
food which experience has shown to disagree, or to occasion 
these attacks, and also to take as preventives, six pellets of 
the No. Ten, morning and night. When the pre¬ 
monitory symptoms, or a slight gastric derangement 
threatens to culminate in an attack, recourse should 
be had at once to the No. Ten, one or more doses of 


858 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


which, at intervals of two or three hours, will suffice to 
correct the derangement, and thus prevent the attack. 
During the attack, the No. Ten is the proper remedy, and 
may be given in doses of six pellets, dissolved in a spoonful 
of water, and repeated every fifteen, thirty or sixty 
minutes, according to circumstances, until the pain is re¬ 
lieved. If the suffering is intense, and the pain does no + 
yield to the No. Ten, after an hour or so, it may be best 
to alternate the No. One in the same manner with it, and 
so continue until the patient is relieved. Two Tonic 
Tablets taken before each meal will prove beneficial. 
Hot cloths laid upon the stomach, and a large injection of 
tepid water, are useful auxiliaries for relief during an 
attack. 


HALITOSIS.—( Offensive Breath ). 

This unpleasant affection may be dependant upon other 
causes than decayed teeth or impurities in the mouth. 
Not unfrequently it arises from imperfect digestion or other 
derangement of the system, and in some persons and fami¬ 
lies, it may be constitutional. 

Treatment. —Persons subject to this affection cannot be 
too careful in keeping the teeth clean and free from tartar, 
and in rinsing the mouth after every meal. With regard 
to medicines, the No. Ten, six pellets morning and night, 
will correct it if dependent upon imperfect digestion. If 
it occurs in females during the monthly period, the No. 
Eleven, six pellets morning and night, will remove the 
difficulty. 


COLIC—BILIOUS COLIC. 

Most persons are acquainted with what is termed colic., 
frtfich is the violent constriction (spasm) of the muscular 


DISEASE ANE TREATMENT.-DIS. OF THE ALIMENTARY TRACE. 357 


coats of tlie large bowel. It consists of paroxysms of 
greater or less degree of pain, generally very severe, felt 
more particularly about the navel, and tlience, extending 
upward or out over the abdomen. The pain is sharp, 
griping, tearing, cutting, or gnawing, coming on in par¬ 
oxysms lasting a few moments and then remitting; some¬ 
times the abdomen is drawn in, and at other times distended 
like a drum; pressure generally relieves the pain in colic, 
while in inflammation the pain is similar, but the abdomen 
is very sensitive when pressed upon, and in severe cases, 
cannot bear even the slightest pressure. Sometimes the 
pains are accompanied by costiveness, and often by vomit¬ 
ing or diarrhoea. In colic there is seldom fever or heat of 
the surface, or a quick pulse, or pain on pressure, ail of 
which are characteristic of inflammation. It may also be 
distinguished from hernia , or rupture, by the tumor either 
in the navel region or in the groin, which is always present 
and easily recognized in hernia, and from enteritis, or in¬ 
flammation of the smaller bowels, by lack of the accom¬ 
panying fever and by extreme tenderness of the abdomen , as 
well as by an absence of complete intermissions of pain. 

Colic may be caused by excess in diet, flatulent food; 
dissipation; grief; cold, or anything that induces derange¬ 
ment of the digestive organs, or constipation of the bowels. 
Sometimes it arises from stricture of the intestine, or may 
in rare cases arise from cancerous disorganisation of some 
portion of the intestine, or from intussusception. 

Flatulent , or wind colic , is common in children who are 
fed with improper diet, and in dyspeptics after the use ot 
heavy, improper or flatulent food. 

Bilious colic is generally preceded by symptoms of biliary 
or gastric derangement, such as: Yellow-coated tongue, 
bitter taste, loss of appetite, dull headache. There i& 
generally nausea and vomiting; severe cutting, writhing 
vain, with thirst and anxiety; pain more especially extend- 


358 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


ing from above the umbilicus towards the liver; coming on 
in severe, intense paroxysms. The pain is relieved after 
vomiting and discharge of free, bilious stools. 

Lead colic or painters colic is produced by the exposure to 
fche action of lead, (especially the oxide of lead and white 
lead) and is common among painters and among workers in 
lead factories, or in smelting ores. The most dangerous 
modes by which lead is introduced into the system are its 
absorption by the respiratory apparatus, as by the continued 
inhalation of the dust or vapour of lead by workmen, and 
by taking food with hands soiled with that form of the 
poison they are in the habit of using; this explains why 
workers in lead-mines, and in white-lead factories, painters, 
potters, type-makers, and others, are particularly liable to 
lead-colic. Less frequent causes are—indulgence in snuff 
wrapped in tinfoil, wine sweetened by sugar-of-lead, the 
preparation of food in leaden vessels badly glazed, and 
water contaminated by passing through leaden pipes. 

Lead-colic has also been observed in cows feeding on tlio 
fields in the neighbourhood of lead-mines and in animals 
drinking water from rivers which originate in lead-mines. 
The symptoms are: Loss of appetite, restless sleep, and 
nervous excitability. This is succeeded by vomiting, pain 
in the abdomen, coming on at first in paroxysms, but gra¬ 
dually becoming continuous. There is but little fever, but 
headache, pain in the limbs, and obstinate constipation, 
and sometimes even paralysis of the extremities. A bluish 
line along the edge of the gums may be often noticed in 
persons suffering from lead-colic. 

Treatment. —In general, and for ordinary attacks of colic, 
the Number Five is the proper remedy, and will be 
found efficient. Should, however, the disease have been 
caused by heavy or indigestible food, or be accompanied 
with symptoms of gastric derangement, suen as a coated 
tongue,, bad taste,, flatulence, etc., it will be well to alternate 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT*-DIS. OF THE ALIMENTARY TRACK. 359 

the No. Ten with the No. Five. Dissolve twelve pellets 
of each remedy, in six large spoonfuls of water, in 
separate glasses, and of these give alternately, every quarter 
or half hour, until relieved. This is the mode of procedure 
in all severe cases of colic from whatever cause, except that 
in cases where the bowels become tender, or sensitive on 
pressure, there may be some fever, showing a tendency 
to the development of inflammatory action. In these latter 
causes, the No. One should be prepared and given 
in alternation with No. Five, in the manner indicated 
above. Simple, uncomplicated spasmodic colic, yields 
promptly to the No. Five, administered in water, six 
pellets every fifteen or twenty minutes. 

In all cases of severe colic it is advisable, and in all ob¬ 
stinate cases, it may be necessary to administer to the 
patient, and the more so if caused by indigestible or noxious 
substances, injections of warm water. To a pint of warm 
water, add a tablespoonful of salt, and with a good syringe, 
pump it into the abdomen. If the patient can retain it a 
little time, it may be more effectual, and these injections 
should be repeated until, in connection with the medicines, 
relief is obtained. Hot flannels may be laid over the ab^ 
domen. 

Diet.— It is obvious that little or no food, and that only 
of the lightest kind, such as oat-meal gruel, rice-water, 
toast-water, or some light soup, should, be given until after 
the disease has yielded. 

Persons subject to attacks of colic should be specially 
careful in avoiding the occasioning causes of it, such as in¬ 
digestible food, the use of beans, cabbage, krout, or green 
vegetables, acidulated drinks, or veal or young meat; and 
should also be careful to keep the feet and abdomen dry 
and warm. They may also find benefit by wearing flannel 
around the abdomen, and keeping the feet well-protected 
from the damp. 


360 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


The use of the Number Ten, six pellets at night, 
will also do much to correct the digestion, and so prevent 
attacks. 

Prevention. —Change of occupation is necessary. Some 
persons are much more readily affected than others; and, if 
one member of a family suffers from ansemia, nervousness, 
and debility of the upper extremities, while the others are 
in apparent health, the blue line on the gums should be 
looked for, and the condition of the water-supply, and other 
possible means of lead-poisoning, carefully inquired into. 

NAUSEA AND VOMITING. 

Nausea and vomiting seldom occurs except as a symptom 
of some other complaint or disease. It generally proceeds 
from improper food or too large a quantity; a disordered 
condition of the digestive functions; pregnancy; disease or 
irritation in the other organs, as the brain, kidneys, uterus, 
etc.; cancer or ulcer of the stomach; mechanical obstruction 
of any part of the intestinal canal; morbid states of the 
blood; it also occurs in most of the eruptive fevers. 

Prognosis. —Nausea and vomiting occurring in diseases 
of the brain, as in epilepsy, are unfavorable indications; on 
the contrary, in pregnancy or hysteria, no alarm need be 
felt, as they are merely symptomatic of irritation conveyed 
by the nervous system to the stomach. We may learn 
much by observing the time of the occurrence of vomiting, 
the nature of the matters ejected, and the extent and ur¬ 
gency of the symptoms. If vomiting afford relief, and the 
nausea, oppression of the chest and stomach, and headache 
cease, the case may be considered favorable; if, on the other 
hand, the symptoms preceding vomiting are not relieved by 
it, but increase, the disease must be regarded as having 
taken an alarming form. 

Treatment. —Should vomiting arise from over-repletion, 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-DIS. OF THE ALIMENTARY TRACK. 361 


or from indigestible food, it may be regarded as a conserva¬ 
tive effort, and should be encouraged, within proper limits, 
by drinking warm water, or tickling the throat with a 
feather until the offending material is expelled. 

After the noxious substance has been ejected, the No. 
Six, six pellets dissolved in a spoonful of water and given 
every hour, will soon allay the remaining irritation, and 
relieve the nausea. When it occurs in the case of pregnant 
females, consult what is said under that head. 

Sea-sicJcness — Sickness from car or carriage riding .— 
The peculiar sickness and utter wretchedness and pros¬ 
tration experienced by persons on first going to sea; and 
even, in a measure, by some persons from riding in a car, 
motor or wagon, is so well known as not to require de¬ 
scription. 

For several days before embarking, indigestible food, over¬ 
repletion, or any irregularity in diet, should be avoided. 

Treatment. —Take No Twenty-six for six or eight days 
previous to sailing, if convenient, six pellets every four 
hours, permitting them to dissolve on the tongue. 

During the early part of the voyage, unless the weather 
be very fine, the patient should remain in his berth in a 
horizontal posture, and take chiefly liquid food—beef-tea, 
chicken broth, etc. Good draughts of warm water, more 
often relieve than anything else. A girdle, moderately 
tight, round the waist and abdomen, or a stomach com¬ 
press, have also been recommended. Warmth to the 
stomach and feet tends very much to prevent sea-sickness. 
Anything to amuse, and divert the attention from the 
waving lines of the horizon is useful. 

After sailing, for the first two or three days- take 
six pellets, every four hours; and should there, not¬ 
withstanding, be severe sickness, vertigo, nausea, or 


86 2 


BOMEOPATHIO MENTOR. 


vomiting, dissolve twelve pellets in half a glass of water, 
and take a dessert-spoonful every hour until relieved. 

For sickness, nausea, or vomiting from riding in a car¬ 
riage or similar motion, take of the Number Twenty-six 
six pellets, every hour until relieved. 

Hematemesis — Vomiting of blood .—This disease is known 
by the vomiting, or sudden ejection of blood from the 
stomach. It is generally preceded by nausea, distress or 
pain of the stomach, indigestion, a feeble pulse, pallor and 
other signs of fainting. The blood vomited is generally 
dark, rarely bright red, and is occasionally mixed with the 
food, mucus, bile, or other contents of the stomach, and is 
thrown off in large quantities; blood is also frequently dis¬ 
charged by stool, in coagula. It may be known from bleed¬ 
ing of the lungs, by reference to the accompanying table: 

If from the Stomach.— Tlie blood is of a dark color; is vomited; 
is often mixed with food , and is not frothy; is preceded by nausea 
and stomach distress; is generally passed with the evacuations from 
the bowels. 

If from the Lungs.— The blood is of a bright-red color; is 
generally coughed up; is generally frothy and mixed with sputa; is 
often preceded by pain in the chest and dyspnoea; is not found in 
the stools. 

Vomiting of blood is always preceded by more or less 
decided symptoms of gastric disturbance or weak digestion, 
such as: Pressure, weight, fulness, or tensive pain in the 
region of the stomach; burning heat in that region; anxiety 
or uneasiness on pertaking of food or drink, or on pressure 
of the stomach; saltish taste in the mouth; impaired appe¬ 
tite and nausea; vertigo, faintness, or cold perspiration; 
sometimes, also, an intermittent pulse is felt at the pit ol 
the stomach. If the attack is very severe, there may be 
delirium or wandering of the mind, accompanied with 
spasms, and gradually increasing weakness and remission 
of pulse, with frequent fainting. It is most frequently 
caused by the suppression of some habitual discharge, aa 
from hemorrhoids or the menstrual flow. -Other causes; 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DIS. OF THE ALIMENTARY TRACK. 365 


schirrhus, or internal lesions, or disorganizations of the 
stomach, or the use of poisonous or drastic purgatives, or 
an external contusion, or obstruction of some important 
viscera, may occasion congestion and the rupture of some 
vessels distributed over the surface of the stomach, and 
hence, become the immediate cause of the hemorrhage. 

Treatment.—T he first thing to do is to arrest the hemor¬ 
rhage, and for this purpose Humphreys’ Marvel Witch 
Hazel is the most efficient, and may be given in doses of 
twenty drops, in a large spoonful of cold water, and re¬ 
peated every fifteen minutes, until the bleeding is arrested, 
when it may be continued at intervals of an hour, or even 
a longer period, especially if the system seems exhausted, 
or there are yet indications of internal hemorrhage. 

If there is fever or heat of the system, administer the 
No. One, six pellets in a spoonful of water, and repeat 
every half hour. If the hemorrhage come on in con¬ 
sequence of the suppression or non-appearance of the men¬ 
strual flux, the No. Eleven should be given every hour, 
either alone or in alternation with Humphreys’ Marvel 
Witch Hazel. The diet should be carefully considered; 
all solid food must be avoided, and all warm drinks. 
Animal jellies, preparations of milk, light puddings and 
broths, merely tepid, may be allowed in cases where the 
condition of the patient requires nourishment, but no more 
food should be taken than is absolutely necessary to sustain 
the strength, and for some hours after an attack, no food 
should be given, and then, only in small quantities, and 
very cautiously. 

Vicarious hemorrhage .—In vicarious hemorrhage, as in 
females when bleeding from the nose or stomach takes the 
place of the menstrual discharge, the treatment should be 
directed to restoring the normal monthly function. 

Accessory Measures. —Calmness and judgment should 
be exercised, or the discharge of blood may cause alarm to the 
patient and his friends, and unfit them for carrying out the 


364 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


measures necessary for the safety or even life of the sufferer. 
The patient should immedieately lie down on a sofa or 
mattress, with the head and shoulders elevated: all tight- 
fitting clothes should be removed or loosened, quiet main¬ 
tained, ard no talking, crowding, noise, or confusion per¬ 
mitted; at the same time the room should be keep cool and 
airy—at about 55° Fahr. Ice is a. most useful agent for 
arresting haematemesis, and it should be swallowed in small, 
oft-repeated pieces; it then comes in more immediate con¬ 
tact with, and tends to constrict, the bleeding vessels. 

It also important in hemorrhage from the stomach, that 
the organ should have perfect rest. As long as any ten¬ 
dency to hemorrhage continues, the patient should remain 
in bed, and take nothing by the mouth except sips of iced- 
water. Food, beef-tea, etc., should be introduced by the 
rectum. 

Should faintness occur, no alarm need be excited, because 
it is often nature’s method of arresting the bleeding. After 
the hemorrhage, the patient must still be kept cool and 
quiet, and the diet be light and unstimulating, while the 
posture of the body should be such as to favor the return 
of blood from the bleeding organs. Should the faintness 
persist, iced champagne is often an excellent restorative, 
and is not likely to induce vomiting. 

CHOLERA MORBUS. 

This disease is of frequent occurrence in warm climates^ 
and during the warm seasons of the year. It is generally 
brought on by the use of unripe fruit, or that which is over 
ripe, or stale, such as melons or cucumbers; or eating too 
much, or too many, or incongruous things at a time, and 
being over-heated afterwards; sudden changes of tempera¬ 
ture; over-fatigue, or too free use of ice or ice-water. 

The symptoms are violent vomiting and purging; throw* 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-DIS. OP THE ALIMENTARY TRACK. 365 

mg off the contents of the stomach and bowels at first, and 
afterwards bile; pain in the stomach and abdomen; thirst, 
and in severe cases, cramps, and coldness of the extremities; 
the face may also become pale, cold, bluish and sunken; 
features pinched, and cold, clammy-skin; and great 
anxiety and prostration, simulating an attack of cholera. 

It is generally preceded by some symptoms indicating 
disturbance of the system, such as shivering, pain in the 
stomach, and nausea; but in some cases it makes its attack 
without sensible premonitions. 

It is liable to come on suddenly at night, and, properly 
managed, is of short duration. 

Treatment. —The No. Six is the proper remedy, and 
may be administered by dissolving twelve pellets in six 
dessertspoonfuls, of cold water, of which a spoonful may 
be given every fifteen minutes, until the discharges are 
arrested and the warmth returned to the surface. In ex¬ 
treme cases, with violent cramps, coldness and blueness 
of the surface and great anguish, with little or no dis¬ 
charges, a dose of two or three drops of spirits of camphor, 
in a teaspoonful of water, repeated every few minutes, will 
soon relieve. The No. Six, however, will be found 
promptly to arrest the disease. Diet should be light for 
some days, until the tone of the stomach is measurably 
restored. 

ASIATIC CHOLERA. 

An infectious disease not highly contagious, supposed 
to be caused by the introduction into the system of the 
comma bacillus of Koch. This disease assumes an 
epidemic form, sweeping over vast sections of territory and 
numbering its victims among the thousands. 

Our better knowledge of later years has enabled us to 
check and control this epidemic and to limit its scope of 
action. 

The comma bacillus of Asiatic Cholera will be found in 
the stools and evacuations of the affected patients, espe- 


366 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


cially in the rice water discharges of the later stages of th 3 
disease- They are less often found in other fluids and 
organs of the body, and rarely in the vomit. 

During an epidemic the bacilli may often be found in 
the intestines of healthy persons, giving rise to looseness of 
the bowels without causing other symptoms of the disease, 
the so called Cholera Diarrhea, that is noted in persons 
not otherwise affected by the epidemic. 

The grave and often fatal symptoms accompanying an 
attack of Asiatic Cholera is caused by the absorption of 
the toxic poisons secreted by the bacilli in the intestines. 
The symptoms are all those of toxic poisoning. The bacilli 
seem to thrive upon vegetables, cresses, salad plants and 
in butter or milk and upon cold meat and uncooked foods, 
hence the danger of eating any of these articles during an 
epidemic. Raw or uncooked food or unboiled water 
should be shunned by all. Hands and finger nails must 
be kept scrupulously clean. 

The life of the bacilli is from six to eight days. They 
cannot be transmitted through the air, but are carried by 
direct contagion, and introduced through the digestive 
tract. The drinking water may become affected. The 
germs may be carried by flies and deposited upon food or 
utensils, or, unclean hands may bring the contagion. It 
has been noted that the attending physicians and nurses 
escape the infection, while washer-women and those 
handling the soiled linen usually succumb to the disease. 

Precursors. —1. It has been frequently observed that the 
cholera has been preceded by some form of influenza, 
attended with sneezing, discharge from the eyes and nose, 
hoarseness, sore throat, and cough. 2. It has also been 
observed that previous to the outbreak of cholera in a parti¬ 
cular locality, bowel complaints, as they are called, diarr¬ 
hea, dysenteries, colics, etc., have been much more fre¬ 
quent and obstinate, and less under the control of the ordi¬ 
nary remedies than usual: so that physicians, from these 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.- —DIS. OF THE ALIMENTARY TRACK. 867 


manifestations among their patients, have been able to 
recognize the presence of the disease weeks before its final 
outbreak among the people. 3. Sudden attacks of cholera 
are more liable to occur at night and after midnight than 
during the day. Hence the necessity of every family being 
provided with prompt and efficient remedies to avoid the 
hurry, alarm and delay in sending for a physician in the 
night. 

Symptoms.—Cholera Diarrhea. —Almost invariably an 
attack of cholera is preceded by a peculiar form of diar¬ 
rhea. It may precede the cholera several davs, as nothing 
more than loose bowels, attended with rumbling or bor- 
borigmi and slight nausea, or faintish feeling at the 
stomach; but usually it continues but a few hours, and is 
manifested with frequent loose stools , rumbling and uneasiness 
of the abdomen, and a faintish, sinking sensation at the pit 
of the stomach. This is the cholerine or cholera-diarrhea, 
and the immediate precursor or first stage of the disease, 
and demands prompt attention. 

After the. diarrhea has continued for a period varying 
from a few hours to several days, the second stage of the 
disease is ushered in with the following manifestations: 
Repeated Evacuations, attended with great prostration, 
at first, of the usual contents of the intestinal track, then 
gradually becoming more thin, watery and flocculent, until 
they present the true cholera characteristic of profuse rice- 
water evacuations; vomiting in sudden, violent attacks, 
with copious discharges; first of the contents of the stomach, 
then of thin serum or the characteristic rice-water-like 
matter; attended with frequent cramps, first in the fingers, 
toes, and calves of the legs, then over the entire person, 
especially the abdomen, knotting up the limbs, and causing 
exquisite anguish. The breath becomes cold, the lips and 
tongue cold, the skin dry, inelastic, pale or leaden-gray, 
or a bluish-violet around the eyes and at the ends of the 
fingers and toes, and point of the nose, the hands becoming 


368 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


shrivelled like a washer-woman’s. The face becomes 
peculiar in extreme cases, eye-balls glazed and turned 
up, pupils dilated, the upper eyelid drooping, the lower 
surrounded by a bluish half-moon; the color is pale, vary¬ 
ing from a leaden gray to violet; the skin on the lips, 
cheeks, and point of the nose is glazed, nose pointed, cheeks 
sunken, upper lip drawn upward, the nostrils and cartilage 
of the ear very movable and wrinkled from the nose to the 
corners of the mouth, presenting a frightful and ghost-like 
appearance. The voice becomes hoarse, whispering, or 
lost. The pulse at the wrist is very soft, small and dis¬ 
appearing during an attack of spasms, and later becomes 
thread-like and imperceptible. Gradually the anguish and 
indifference, the coldness and blueness and prostration 
become more decided, until the patient sinks into a con¬ 
dition of absolute collapse, succeeded by death after some 
hours. During the attack, the secretion of the urine, the 
bile, the saliva, perspiration, and even of the tears, is 
entirely surppessed, and the reappearance of these secre¬ 
tions is a most favorable indication. With'these mani¬ 
festations of coldness, blueness, and shrivelled skin, and 
even cold breath, the patients yet complain of burning 
heat, long for ice and ice-water, and dread all heating 
applications. 

Not always does the cholera present the above picture. 
Different epidemics have presented varieties in the symp¬ 
toms which are very decided. Thus the disease has been 
divided into three stages, called the premonitory, the stage 
of collapse and the stage of consecutive fever. 

The first, or premonitory stage, is manifested b^ symp¬ 
toms of indigestion, flatulence, weight or oppression at the 
pit of the stomach, slight nausea, acidity, diarrhea, vertigo, 
some form of headache, or ringing in the ears. These 
symptoms may continue some time, but occasionally pass 
off altogether, leaving the patient well, though this is rare; 
and unless proper remedies are used, the symptoms above 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DIS. OF THE ALIMENTARY TRACK. 369 


mentioned continue to increase until the second stage is 
ushered in. 

Second Stage—Stage of Collapse. —The stools at first 
feculant and bilious, now become characteristic; they 
appear like thin gruel or rice-water; sometimes they are 
limpid, intermixed with small flakes of curdy-looking 
matter; at others they look like water in which fresh beef 
has been macerated; sometimes the stools are even darker, 
looking like the dregs of wine. There is no natural smell 
from the stools, but a faint, peculiar odor, which also 
arises from the body. The desire to go to stool is irresist¬ 
ible and instantaneous, and sometimes with great tenesmus, 
accompanied by griping. Generally the stools are very 
copious—sometimes, however, they are scanty, often 
accompanied with discharge of noisy flatus from the 
bowels. There is burning heat in the pit of the stomach, 
and vomiting of large quantities of similar matter as the 
stools. The thirst is intense, with urgent desire for cold 
water. The mind generally remains clear, or compara¬ 
tively so, but the vertigo and ringing in the ears increases. 
Cramps are almost universal attendants—sometimes con¬ 
fined to the fingers and toes; at others, affecting the legs 
and arms, and often the body, particularly the abdomen. 
The urine is generally suppressed; the voice is whispering. 
The respiration, though weak, is often natural, even when 
the pulse is scarcely perceptible at the wrist; occasionally, 
however, the breathing is hurried, oppressed, laborious. 
The pulse becomes weak and rapid early in the disease, 
even when the action of the heart is strong and tumultuous; 
but, frequently, both the pulse and heart are feeble. As 
the disease progresses, both become fainter and weaker; 
the pulse is only now and then felt like a “ flutter, ” and 
often ceases at the wrist some hours before death. The 
tongue is cold and shrunk. The restless tossing, uneasi¬ 
ness, and impatience of the patient is pitiful; especially, 
when they are restrained, or when heat is applied, of 


370 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


which they seem to have a horror. The temperature oi 
the body, especially of the extremities, diminishes early in 
the disease, and constantly sinks, until after death, when 
it gives place, for a time, to a genial warmth. As the 
disease progresses, the hands, feet, nails, face, and even 
the entire surface of the body, becomes ashen, leaden-gray, 
or blue, and this color remains or deepens until reaction 
occurs. Blood drawn from a vein or artery during this 
stage is of dark color, flows with difficulty, and does not 
coagulate. The surface of the body is covered with a cold 
moisture, the features and eye-balls shrink, and death 
doses the scene—sometimes very unexpectedly, and at 
others, the body seems to be long dead, while the functions 
of the brain are still going on, and comparatively normal. 
In some cases the prostration of strength is great, but in 
others not so apparent. 

Symptoms of improvement and recovery from the second 
stage are usually: Diminution of the number and quantity 
of the evacuations, both by vomiting and stools; cessation 
of the restlessness and tossing about; diminution of ths 
cramps and thirst; increase of the strength and fullness of 
the pulse, and increase of the temperature of the body; 
more natural and animated expression of the countenance, 
and disposition to sleep; later, change of the stools from 
the watery to bilious and feculent matter; reappearance of 
the secretion of the urine. When these symptoms are 
manifested, they indicate the safety and early convalescence 
of the patient. 

Consecutive stage. —In some rare cases, and in some 
epidemics more than others, patients instead of rallying at 
once from the second stage, slide over into what has been 
termed a third stage, or a typhus cholera, coming on 
after this fashion: The reaction has been established and 
patients seem to be doing well, not having tenesmus or 
vomiting, nor cramps, or any unusual degree of thirst, and 
the r^tlessness has passed off, and the patient seems to be 


DISEASE AHD TREATMENT.—DlS. OE THE ALIMENTARY TRACK. 371 


tranquil. But gradually, symptoms of coma, deep sleep, 
or delirium come on, and there may be convulsions, 
partial paralysis, rigidity of the flexor muscles of the 
extremities, distressing nausea, bilious vomiting and 
thirst, difficult breathing or hurried respiration, cough, 
expectoration, palpitation or irregular action of the heart, 
more or less heat of the surface, bilious diarrhea, dark 
port-wine stools, tenesmus and pain or tenderness increased 
on pressure in some part of the abdomen. These symptoms 
may be variously combined and modified in particular 
cases, and may continue from four or five to fifteen days, 
ending in death, or the gradual recovery of the patient. 

Hygienic Precautions to be observed during the presence of the 
cholera.— All experience has demonstrated that the disease riots among the 
filthy, ill-fed, ill-clad, and ill-housed multitude; that its especial play-ground is 
along narrow streets, confined areas, ill-ventilated dwellings, low, damp, or 
confined apartments, and that the disease is much more intense and concen¬ 
trated in such localities than elsewhere, and its attacks far more intense and 
fatal. Hence, cleanliness, both of persons and habitations, is of the first 
importance. The yard, gutter and cess-pools, should be cleansed often, and kept 
clean, and frequently sprinkled with chloride of lime, or plenty of lime, and 
the adjoining walls should be repeatedly whitewashed. No stagnant water 
should be permitted in the cellar or yard, and if the basement is damp, fires 
should be kindled daily to expel foul air, and afford better ventilation. All 
garbage should be removed daily, and nothing suffered to remain on the 
premises to be decomposed. Houses should be daily ventilated. Avoid damp, 
low habitations, and in selecting a '•esidence, the higher and more airy the 
situation the better. Narrow lanes and alleys, cellars and basements, and 
crowded apartments should be especially avoided. 

The usual habits of eating, drinking, living, and business, should be 
followed, except when absolutely interdicted. Rash changes should bo 
avoided. Temperance in eating and drinking, excercise and labor, both physical 
and mental is specially enjoined. Keep good hours. Take proper food in 
reasonable quantities, at proper times. Plainly cooked meets, lamb, beef, 
mutton, or fowl, with boiled rice or hominy, stale bread or crackers, and well- 
cooked potatoes, should form the ordinary staple of diet. If wine or spirits 
are habitually used, they may be continued in moderation, but to persons not 
accustomed to them, they are especially objectionable and to be avoided. 
Drunkenness or debauchery powerfully invite the disease. Abstain from all 
unripe fruits, or stale, wilted, or overkept vegetables. Fruit of all kinds should 
be avoided, it induces loose bowels. Cucumbers, salads, lettuce, cabbage, or 
krouts, soda-water, root-beer, melons, turnips, or unripe potatoes, are articles 
especially to be avoided. Beer, cider, mineral-waters, are objectionable. 
Purgative or cathartic medicines, by relaxing the integrity of the intestinal 
canal, may give rise to a sudden and fearful attack of the disease. Avoid 
exposure and sudden changes of temperature, and at all times keep the body 
sufficiently warm and protected, especially the abdomen. To this end wear 
flannel next the skin, at least around the abdomen. Keep the feet and legs 
well protected and warm. 

Above all things, maintain an even, cheerful tone of mind. Hurry, fright, 
fear, anxiety, and all depressing emotions, tend to lower the vital power, and 
so invite the disease, while a firm determination to do our duty. 

Predisposing Causes. —Chronic diarrhea predisposes the 
system for it, as do all prostrating or debilitating habits 
or excesses. 


372 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOB. 


Depressing emotions, such as fear, gloom, despondency, 
anything that tends to lower the tone or resisting powers 
of the system. 

Preventive Treatment. —The homely adage, “ an ounce 
of prevention is better than a pound of cure/’ was never 
more clearly manifest than in this disease. Dirt, filth, 
irregular habits, and vice, aid the disease, while cleanli¬ 
ness, regularity, and order, keep, it at bay. Aside from 
the hygienic observances enjoined above in regard to living , 
labor , and habits of thought, we earnestly recommend, 
also, the use of a simple medicinal prophylactic or pre¬ 
ventive. Experience has amply demonstrated the utility 
of medicinal prophylactics. It has abundantly shown that 
small-pox, scarlet-fever, measles, whooping-cough, and 
fevers, as well as cholera, can be prevented by fortifying 
the system by appropriate medicinal influences. Not, 
indeed, by drugging, overwhelming and thus depressing 
the system, but by the judicious use of the (similar) 
Homeopathic remedies which, by prevading and pre¬ 
occupying the system, fortifies it against, and thus prevents 
an attack of the disease. Hence, we advise the use of the 
No. Six, in doses of six pellets, morning and at night, as 
a prophylactic for the cholera. 

Directions.— -Live temperately; avoid the predisposing 
causes of the disease as before mentioned; and take each 
morning, on rising, or before breakfast, and each night 
on retiring, six pellets of the No. Six. Children need but 
one-half as much as adults. In families, the best manner 
is to place the proper number of pellets for each person in 
a glass, and add a large spoonful of water for adults, and 
a teaspoonful for children, and so give them, morning 
and night, while the disease prevails. Travelers may 
simply take them dry on the tongue, if other conveniences 
are wanting. The result will be, that if the attack occur, 
it will be in a modified and very mild form. 

Treatment of the Cholera Diarrhea, or premonitor} 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-DIS. OF THE ALIMENTARY TRACK. 373 


Stage of the Disease .—The earlier symptoms of the disease 
are: A sense of uneasiness, or sinking at the pit of the 
stomach, rumbling, borborigmi in the bowels, and loose 
stools or diarrhea. Sometimes, to these symptoms are 
added, acidity of the stomach, griping pains in the abdo¬ 
men, vertigo or headache, and ringing or noise in the head. 

As soon as the above symptoms, or even the diarrhea 
alone has declared itself, the patient should retire at once 
to his home, or room, and lie down, taking six pellets of 
the No. Four, If the symptoms are but slight, that is, 
only some diarrhea, and slight uneasiness of the bowels, 
repeat the dose every hour, or every two hours. But if 
the stools are urgent or frequent, with uneasiness and 
nausea, vertigo and sinking at the stomach, repeat the 
dose every half hour until relieved. 

If the diarrhea should not yield in, say four or six 
hours, under the influence of the No. Four, administered 
as above directed, and the disease threatens to pass over 
into the second stage, indicated by more frequent or 
urgent stools, coldness, nausea, or some faintness at the 
pit of the stomach, then omit for a time the diarrhea 
rr medy, and give the No. Six, repeated every half hour, 
ii. its place. In rare cases the Camphor has been efficient 
in checking the diarrhea, in doses of two drops of the 
tincture on a bit of sugar, every half hour. 

It is of the utmost importance that the patient should 
lie down in bed, get warm, keep well covered, with a bottle 
of hot-water, or hot bricks, to the feet, if necessary, and 
so remain warm and in bed, until the diarrhea, rumbling 
and uneasiness has passed off. Being about, or frequently 
getting up, and running out, is very prejudicial, and most 
surely tends to prolong and keep up the disease. 

Avoid trepidation, or hurry, unnecessary anxiety, or 
alarm in prescribing for yourself or others. Do not mul¬ 
tiply doses, or measures of relief, from which nothing is 
permitted to avail; but give every dose carefully, and then 


874 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


give it time to act, and afford relief, and only when one 
has failed, give another. Nothing but Homeopathic 
medicines must be given under Homeopathic treatment. 
All other medicines, or means, interfere and must not be 
allowed. 

This stage may end in health: By the stools becoming 
less frequent and finally natural, the rumbling, uneasiness 
of the bowels disappearing, and the sinking or anxiety at 
the prsecordia going off, or:—it may terminate in the next 
stage by the stools becoming more frequent and fluid, the 
uneasiness and sinking increasing, until vomiting comes 
on with the characteristics of the second stage. 

Treatment of the Cholera proper, or Second Stage of 
the Disease .—This stage is known by profuse, thin, floc- 
culent, or rice-water-like evacuations coming on suddenly 
and frequently. Sudden vomiting of the same or similar 
material, attended with cramps in the extremities, or 
even body, and great coldness or blueness of the surface, 
anxiety and prostration, and other symptoms, as before 
described. 

Where this condition, profuse vomiting and diarrhea, 
is present, the No. Six is only required, of which give six 
pellets, either at once upon the tongue; or better, in a 
spoonful of cold or ice-water, and repeat the dose, every 
fifteen minutes, according to the result; and so continue 
until the cramps, the vomiting and diarrhea have abated, 
when the intervals between the doses may be prolonged to 
half an hour, and then, gradually, as the patient im¬ 
proves, to intervals of an hour or more. 

The patient should at once go to bed, and if possible, 
not get up to attend to the evacuations, but use a bed-pan, 
®r other convenience, for that purpose. Bottles of hot 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-DIS. OF THE ALIMENTARY TRACK. 375 


water, or hot bricks, should be placed to the feet, if the 
patient can bear them. Give nothing but the medicine and 
small sips of ice-water; or better, give from time to time 
small pieces of ice, to remain in the mouth to allay the 
thirst. These are better than water or other fluid, more 
grateful, and less likely to provoke vomiting, stools or 
griping. Let the patient remain quiet as possible after the 
storm is over, and if he falls asleep, do not waken him, 
even to administer medicine. 

To allay the cramps, it is better to grasp and hold the 
knotted limb or part in the warm, firm hand, than merely 
to rub the surface, as you may, by severe rubbing, easily 
excoriate the surface, without relieving the cramp, while 
the warm pressure of the hand is very grateful and effective. 

If the attack occurs in the following form from the first, 
or, if in the course of the disease this condition is developed, 
viz.: but little, or only slight vomiting, or purging, or scanty 
evacuations, but great dullness or confusion of the head, 
severe, frequent, long-continued cramps, predominant cold* 
ness and blueness of the surface, loss of voice, and weak , 
thread-like, or wanting pulse , give at once five drops of spirits 
of camphor, in half a teaspoonful of cold water, and re¬ 
peat the dose every ten minutes, or even every five minutes, 
in extreme cases, until the returning pulse, or warmth of 
the surface, and returning evacuations show the reaction of 
the system to have come on. Then gradually omit the 
camphor, and return to the use of the Number Six, 
which continue every fifteen or thirty minutes, and at 
longer intervals, until entire relief is obtained. The cam¬ 
phor is the best remedy to arrest the sinking, coldness, blue¬ 
ness, failing pulse, and tendency to absolute collapse; and 
when the evacuations have ceased, or nearly so, a few doses, 
given at intervals of five or ten minutes, will promptly bring 
up the pulse and warmth to the surface, and with this 
reaction the vomiting and evaevations may again return. 


376 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


Then the Number Sax comes again in use and may bo 
continued as above mentioned, a dose of six pellets every 
ten or twenty minutes, until the evacuations have ceased 
and relief is fully pronounced. 

After the storm has passed over, and the vomiting, 
diarrhoea, and cramps have vanished, and returning pulse, 
warmth, sleep, and rest, and secretions have become re¬ 
established, a little nourishment may be given. This should 
consist of very light meat broth, and in very small quantities 
at first, as experience has shown that the stomach long re** 
mains weak after an attack, and heavy or indigestible food, 
or any food in too large quantity, may easily provoke a 
relapse, always more dangerous than the original attack. 
Hence, give at first a little weak black tea, or chicken or 
lamb broth; afterwards boiled rice, toasted bread, and only 
very gradually return to a more substantial diet. 

The patient will remain weak and enfeebled for some 
time, and not unfrequently, the digestive organs are long in 
regaining their former strength and vigor. For this de¬ 
bility, beer and good malt liquor have proved beneficial. 
Too free perspiration diminishes the strength; and slight 
mental excitement, too much warmth, too much drink or 
food, cause anguish, palpitation, small, soft pulse, vomiting 
or diarrhoea, uneasy sleep, and extreme debility. 

The second stage may terminate in convalescence, indi¬ 
cated by: Diminished violence and frequency of the evacua¬ 
tions, first the vomiting, later the diarrhoea; diminution of 
the cramps; increasing strength and fullness of the pulse; 
returning warmth of the surface; more natural expression 
of the countenance; less tossing about, restlessness and 
jactitation; diminished thirst; bilious stools; natural warmth 
of the surface, return of the natural secretions, urine, saliva 
and perspiration; quiet, tranquil sleep; or, this condition 
may slide into the third stage indicated by the following 
symptoms:— 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DIS. OF THE ALIMENTARY TRACK. 877 


Diminished vomiting; great indifference; extreme pros¬ 
tration; the patient, lying on the hack, sinks down towards 
the foot of the bed; some return of warmth or moisture to 
the skin; increasing lividity or blueness of the surface, and 
ihe blue , sunken , pointed Cholera face; the pulse cannot be 
felt, and later, not even at the carotids or heart; eyes dull 
and glassy; only occasional and not characteristic vomiting 
and diarrhoea; later, the stools are involuntary, as if coming 
from a spout; respiration labored, rattling and almost 
ceasing This stage may last from one or two hours, to as 
many days, and usually terminates in death, preceded by 
cold, clammy sweats, complete cessation of circulation and 
respiration, and final paralysis of the lungs. 

Treatment.— In this stage of entire collapse, which may 
last a day or two, the patient is not absolutely hopeless, 
and should be carefully and judiciously treated. The case 
will doubtless be placed in the hands of a competent 
Homeopathic physician, who, by the alternate use of Carb. 
veg. and Arsenicum, administered every hour, may save 
the patient. 

As the pulse comes up, the medicine may be given at 
longer intervals. It is useless, and often cruel, to make 
hot applications to the patient, who, however cold, com¬ 
plains of heat, and refuses all covering. Hence, make them 
comfortable, covering only as decency and the weather re¬ 
quires, give the medicines and patiently await the result. 


378 


HOMEOPATHIC mentor. 


DIARRHCEA .—(Looseness of the bowels). 

This is a condition of the bowels in which they are moved 
more frequently than in health, and the stools are more or 
less fluid in form. The stools may be very numerous, or 
only two or three in the twenty-four hours, and may be 
of almost every variety of character and consistence. 

Simple frequency of evacuation may exist while there may 
be no increase in the quan’ty of faecal matter discharged, 
or it may even be deficient. True Diarrhoea depends upon 
defective absorption of the intestines, so that an excess of 
matter passes through them, and less is taken up for the 
nourishment of the body. 

Sometimes, loose bowels or a transient diarrhoea is merely 
the- salutary effort of the system to rid itself of some in¬ 
jurious or indigestible substance; and hence, when there is 
reason to suspect such a condition, it is proper to wait a 
reasonable period before attempting to arrest it, and only 
when the condition is clearly morbid, seek to control it by 
the proper means. 

When the evacuations seem to afford the patient relief, it 
is safe to wait a day or so to see if it is not merely a salutary 
effort of nature, and which will speedily correct itself. 

The chief forms are: irritative diarrhoea (from excessive, 
stimulating, irritating, or impure food or drink); congestive 
or inflammatory diarrhoea (from cold, cold drinks or ices 
when the body is overheated, checked perspiration, or 
suppressed accustomed discharges); diarrhoea lienterica (or 
discharges of unaltered food from arrest of the digestive 
and assimilative functions); and summer-diarrhoea. 

Symptoms. —Nausea, flatulence, griping pain in the bowels; 
followed by loose motions, which may vary as regards con¬ 
sistence — being fluid or watery; in their nature —slimy, 
bilious, or bloody; and in their odor and color. Furred 
tongue, foul breath, and acrid eructations, are generally 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-DIS. OF THE ALIMENTARY TRACK. 379 


^uperadded. The circulation, breathing, and other functions 
are usually unaffected. In summer-diarrhoea, the discharges 
are chiefly bilious, and there are often violent pains in the 
abdomen, cramps in'the legs, and great prostration. 

Causes. —1. Over-repletion of the stomach may occasion 
irritation and diarrhoea by the mere quantity of the aliment 
introduced, but these results more commonly follow the 
mixture of various kinds of food and drink in one meal. 
2. Indigestible kinds of food, —Such are, especially,—sour, 
unripe, or decaying fruits or vegetables; badly-cooked food; 
fatty and rich food; various kinds of shell-fish; putrid or 
diseased animal food. Numerous proofs have been often 
furnished in the public journals that the flesh of diseased 
animals is extensively sold for human food. 3. Impure 
water, —contaminated with sewage or sewage gases, or with 
decomposing animal matter, is almost certain to occasion 
diarrhoea, especially in recent visitors to a neighbourhood 
supplied with such water. 4. Atmospheric influences. —The 
heat of summer, the hot days but chilly nights and morn¬ 
ings oi autumn, are frequent exciting causes of diarrhoea; 
so is the application of cold to the perspiring body, or the 
sudden checking of perspiration. Hot weather is a frequent 
exciting cause of diarrhoea, called on this account, Summei 
or “English Cholera.” Probably, to the influence of the 
change of temperature—from the excessive heat of the day 
to the cool of the evening in the autumnal months—may be 
added that of bad drainage, and the impurities which then 
exist in our rivers and springs. 5. Mental emoi, ^s.— 1 The 
depressing influences of fear or anxiety, or the vioie. ' ex¬ 
citement of anger, are frequent exciting causes. “A sudden 
fright,” writes Sir Thomas Watson, “excites in many per¬ 
sons the action of the bowels as certainly as, and much more 
quickly than, a Uack-draughtr 6. Functional or organic 
disease. —Diarrhoea is often a symptom of other diseases 
arising from local or constitutional causes, as in enteric 


380 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


fever; and in hectic fever, and phthisis, when it is called 
colliquative diarrhoea, because it appears to melt down the 
substance of the body; cachectic diarrhoea, as from chronic 
malarious diseases; bilious diarrhoea, from excessive flow 
of bile, as in hot weather or after passing a gall-stone. 
Looseness of the bowels is a very common precursor of 
cholera, when that disease is epidemic. 

The irritation of teething in children is one of the most 
frequent causes of diarrhoea, and it is generally observed 
that teething children who have diarrhoea, are less liable to 
serious illness than those who have constipated bowels. 

Diarrhoea, also, usually comes on at the close of several 
diseases, as some forms of fever, measles and consumption. 

Treatment.— The No. Four is appropriate for almost 
all forms of diarrhoea and loose bowels, and will speedily 
control it. It may be given dry on the tongue, six 
pellets at a dose, and repeat at intervals of from an hour to 
two or three hours, according to the urgency of the case. 
Should the stools be loose, thin, watery, or urgent, and 
especially if there should be some nausea or vomiting, the 
No. Six should be given in alternation with No. Four, 
as before directed Should there be pain, griping, or 
straining, showing a tendency to dysentery, the No. Five 
is appropriate, and may be given alone, or in alternation 
with the No. Four. 

Diet and general management. —Best and quiet are very 
beneficial in all severe cases of diarrhoea. The patient 
should avoid acids, coffee, and all highly seasoned or salted 
articles of food; also, all fruit, eggs, oysters, and chicken or 
veal. The diet should be: Stale bread, rice, hominy, oat¬ 
meal, barley, or drinks made from these; milk, thickened 
with flour; or mutton-soup, thickened with rice or oat-meal. 
As the appetite returns, the diet may be more liberal, but 
still care and discretion should be exercised in the selection 
of food until the disease is arrested. 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT*.—DIS. OR THE ALIMENTARY TRACK. 381 

Accessory Means. —The extremities should be kept warm, 
and exposure to cold or wet avoided. Best, in the recum¬ 
bent posture, is desirable in acute cases. Severe griping 
pains may be relieved by heated flannel applied to the ab¬ 
domen, dry, or wrung out of hot water. A roll of flannel, 
fitting moderately tight around the abdomen, is very com¬ 
forting, and hastens the cure. Persons liable to diarrhsea 
should always wear flannel abdominal-belts. Night air and 
late hours predispose to attacks. Except in severe cases, 
moderate out-of-door exercise should be taken daily. On 
recovery relapse should be guarded against, by careful 
avoidence of improper food, clothing, exposure, mental ex¬ 
citement, or over-exertion. 

Chronic Diarrhoea.— Is quite common in the hot climates 
or where persons have been long subjected to unfavorable 
influences of climate, exposure or bad food. It is often, 
also, the result of badly-cured fevers and diseases of the 
liver, and a not rare result of an imperfectly cured dysen¬ 
tery. It may also be the result of scrofulous disease of the 
bowels, tubercular deposits, or degeneration of the follicu¬ 
lar and mucous surface, or of ulceration. The stools vary 
according to the seat, location, and character or nature of 
the local degeneration from which they arise. They are 
however, frequent, more or less liquid, sometimes muco¬ 
purulent, or may at times be even blood-stained or mucus. 
They are usually accompanied by general prostration, im¬ 
paired digestion, emaciation, or other evidences of organic 
disease. 

Treatment.— The alternate use of the No. Four and 
No. Five have proved curative in numerous cases. Six 
pellets may be given at a time, dry on the tongue, and re¬ 
peated every four hours, in alternation. For diet, consult 
what is said under diarrhoea. 


382 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


CHOLERA INFANTUM. 

Eew diseases are more destructive among young children 
than Cholera Infantum. It prevails principally in our cities 
and larger towns during the hot or summer season, and is 
mostly confined to children under two years of age. It is 
much more liable to attack those who are reared on the 
bottle than those that nurse, and far more fatal or destruc¬ 
tive among those who are ill fed, or are living in close, ill 
ventilated or low rooms, and in the close streets, than 
among those who have better or larger apartments, or purer 
air. Oftentimes removal to free country air and the use of 
pure, wholesome milk, is sufficient to effect a cure. To 
those who cannot remove to the country or to the sea side, 
the riding on our rivers or bays, in a cool, well shaded boat, 
is a precious resource. 

Symptoms. —The disease generally commences in the form 
of diarrhoea , with frequent, thin or watery stools, which are 
whitish, yellowish or ash-grey, sometimes green or greenish, 
having a very penetrating, peculiar odor, or sometimes a 
sourish or sweetish, fresh smell. After a few days, and 
sometimes from the first, nausea and vomiting is associated 
with the diarrhoea. The stomach becomes very irritable, 
vomiting everything that is taken, within a short time, so 
that nothing seems to be retained. The stools become more 
frequent or profuse, and the emaciation progresses from 
day to day. There is usually decided thirst, either from 
the beginning or after a few days, and the child eagerly 
Watches and greedily drinks of the proffered fluid, often 
only to have it vomited up again, unless given in very small 
quantities. Unless relieved, the stools increase in fre¬ 
quency, or become only occasional, but are excessive in 
quantity and offensive; the uneasiness, thirst and vomiting 
increase; the emaciation progresses; wrinkles form about 
the nates; the neck becomes thin; the skin hangs in folds 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DIS. OF THE ALIMENTARY TRACK. 383 


about the arms and legs; the # face is sallow, pale and 
shrunken, and the features have an old look; the eyes be¬ 
come dull, and the patient sinks into a stupid slumber, oi 
glides into an “ encephaloid” condition which, after a day or 
two, closes the scene. 

Sometimes the attack is much more sudden, the child 
from the beginning having vomiting and repeated thin, 
watery stools, with rapid sinking and collapse of the system. 
In the first case the disease may run from three to twelve 
weeks, until the child is reduced to a skeleton; or in the 
latter, or more acute attack, the patient may sink in three 
or four days. 

Treatment.— In the treatment of this disease the diet and 
air of the patient are of first importance. Children who 
nurse have a much better chance than those brought up by 
hand, and goat’s milk is often better than that of cows, 
especially for very feeble children. Good, healthy, country 
air, by preference in an elevated region, or at the sea side, 
and fresh-drawn cow’s milk are usually the best sources of 
restoration, and place the system in the best position to be 
aided by medicine. 

At the first indication of Diarrhcea, or relaxed bowels, 
give the Number Four — two pellets, which may be given 
dry in the mouth, and repeated every two hours—and this 
medicine may be continued through the entire course of 
the disease, prolonging the intervals between the doses as 
the patient improves, or even giving it every hour if the 
stools are as often, or are very frequent. When we have 
diarrhoea remember to avoid all acids, fruits, tea, coffee, 
eggs, oysters, chicken or veal, or soup made from them, but 
use milk, thickened, if need be, with flour, or rice water, or 
farina. If the child nurses let it be confined to the breast 
as far as possible, recurring to the above only as auxiliaries 

If the stomach has become irritable , the child vomiting or 
nauseated, throwing up its food or drink from time to time, 


884 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


the No. Six is demanded, and should be prepared by dis 
solving twelve pellets in six ieaspoonfuls of water, in a glass, 
of which, after well stirring, a spoonful should be given 
every hour, and this should be continued until the vomit¬ 
ing and nausea are allayed. Should the diarrhea continue, 
and the nausea or vomiting be only abated, but not en¬ 
tirely subdued, and more especially if the stools are quite 
large, thin or watery, then give the two above mentioned 
remedies in alternation, at intervals of one or two hours, 
according to the urgency of the symptoms, giving two 
pellets of No. Four, dry one time, and a spoonful of the 
solution of No. Six the next time, and so on in alterna¬ 
tion, so long as the condition requires. Care must bo 
taken in this irritable condition of the stomach not to give 
the child food or drink too often , or to much at a time. Give 
a few spoonfuls, or let it nurse a few moments, then after 
one or two hours give again, for the stomach often retains 
a few spoonfuls when a larger quantity is rejected, thus in¬ 
creasing the irritability. 

If the child moans, frets and worries, is sleepless or 
tossing about, you can interpose occasionally, as an inter¬ 
current remedy, a few pellets of No. Three with advantage. 

DYSENTERY. 

Dysentery generally prevails in the late summer and fall 
of the year, when the days are hot and the nights cool. 
It is often epidemic, but may be induced by exposure to 
drafts of air, over-exertion, sitting on the damp or cold 
ground, use of acid or unripe fruits, or stale fruits and 
vegetables, melons, cucumbers, etc. 

Causes. —“ I believe dysentery to be caused by the action 
of a poison in the blood having a peculiar affinity for the 
glandular structures to the large intestine. This poison I 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-DIS. OF THF ALIMENTARY TRACK. 385 


believe to be a malaria generated in the soil by the decom¬ 
position of organic matter” {Maclean). The effluvia from 
dysenteric stools are infectious, and, consequently, are a 
cause of the disease. 

It is liable to attack ail ages and both sexes, but is more 
dangerous for infants, children, the aged, and females 
generally, than for men. 

An attack of dysentery is usually preceded for some days, 
or in some cases only for a few hours, by precursory symp¬ 
toms, such as: Sense of general depression, pains in the 
neck, back, or limbs, headache, loss of appetite, chilliness, 
heat, transient sweats, nausea or vomiting. Gradually 
there are colic pains jiassing about the bowels, in the navel 
region, and along the course of the colon; rumbling, and a 
feeling as if there was some foreign body low down in the 
rectum, producing an inclination to stool, and diarrhoea, or 
in some cases constipation. 

The disease is characterized by pains in the abdomen, 
which pass from the navel region to the right, then up and 
across the abdomen and down the left side, and extending 
towards the rectum, terminate by producing the tenesmus , 
or urgent desire for stool. Usually these pains and tenes¬ 
mus precede every stool, and often remain quite a time 
after it, and so there may be an almost incessant urging to 
stool, caused by the swelling and irritation of the rectum. 
This feeling of tenesmus or straining, a violent constriction 
of the rectum, is a characteristic of the disease. The stools 
are very frequent, often twelve, twenty-four, fifty, or more 
in the twenty-four hours. Sometimes the urgency is so 
constant that the patient can scarcely leave the vessel. The 
quantity is very small, often not more than a spoonful, and 
consists of mucus, fluid, or coagulated blood, more or less 
mixed with greenish or mucus masses, or membranous clots 
like scrapings of the intestines, with little or no fecal matter. 
Often there is fever, thirst, headache, hot, dry skin, acceler- 


386 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


ated pulse, diminished urine, sleeplessness, and the ab- 
domen is painful to contact. 

The disease may continue eight or ten days, and termin¬ 
ate in recovery by the remission of the colic and tenesmus, 
stools becoming less frequent, more copious and feculent, 
warm perspiration, quiet and sleep coming on; or it may 
end fatally, with increase of violent symptoms, until peri¬ 
tonitis, or a typhus condition sets in. Under our treatment 
it is rarely fatal, except in quite young children, and gener¬ 
ally terminates in health in four or six days. 

Treatment.— The No. Five is the appropriate remedy, 
and may be administered, if the stools are quite fre- 
q nent, as often as every twenty or thirty minutes, in 
doses of six pellets for adults, dissolved in a small spoonful 
of water. Should there be considerable fever, thirst and 
restlessness, the No. One may be given in alternation 
with No. Five, at the same intervals and doses until the 
fever is subdued, when the No. Five should be con¬ 
tinued alone, at intervals of from half an hour, to an hour, 
diminishing the frequency of the doses as the disease is 
subdued. 

Diet and Regimen.— When the disease comes on, the 
patient should at once keep quiet; avoid exercise or labor 
of any kind; if possible, lie down, and confine himself 
strictly, during the whole course of the disease, to a por¬ 
ridge made of milk and flour well cooked, or to farina 
gruel, or rice-water and boiled rice. No vegetables or fruit 
can be allowed, nor meat, nor meat-broths; and spirits, or 
stimulants of any kind, are absolute poisons. Use no other 
medicines of any kind. Opium only conceals the disease 
by quieting the pain and evacuations, while the hidden 
disease rages more destructively. 

During the disease, if the evacuations are very frequent 
and the tenesmus or straining very distressing and painful, 
occasional ini.ections of thin starch may be given, or t4>~ 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DIS. OE ALIMENTARY TRACK. 387 

patient may have an occasional seat-bath of tepid water. 
This course strictly followed will rarely fail to afford 
decided relief in from twelve to twenty-four hours. 

PILES OR HEMORRHOIDS 

Piles are usually known as tumors upon the anus. 
These tumors vary much in their size and situation. They 
are usually small, of nut or filbert size, but at times grow 
to a walnut or even egg size; and sometimes form in 
groups or clusters about the anus. They are situated 
either on the outer or inner margin of the anal opening, 
or higher up within the rectum. If upon the outside or 
just at the margin, they are readily felt with the finger; 
or if just within the ring or spincture, they come down 
with the straining at stool, and either go back of them¬ 
selves, or have to be replaced, so as to limit the pain and 
avoid their strangulation by the constriction of the 
spincture muscle which surrounds the opening. When 
they are “internal” they may extend some inches along 
up the rectum, forming tumors; and as these open and 
discharge from the pressure upon them, ulcerations or 
raw patches, or even blind pouches are formed, which, 
extending downwards may form an abcess by suppuration, 
and open upon the outside near the anus, thus forming a 
“Fistula.”—“Fistula in Ano.” 

Piles are always the result of congestion of the venous 
system of the abdomen, and hence from time to time 
persons subject to them have what are called “turns of 
piles. ’ ’ The tumors and surrounding tissue then become 
congested, inflamed, and very painful. The tumors swell, 
become dark red, and frequently burst or open at some 
point and bleed profusely, forming what are known as 
Bleeding Piles.” This is especially the case when the 
tumors form internally or higher up within the rectum, 
or gut. Those subject to this form of the disease have 
mostly the dull, heavy pain in the part, and may only 
know of the cause from the more or less profuse dis¬ 
charge of blood with the stool or upon their linen, which 
occurs from time to time; or, may indeed, even be quite 
constant. The amount of blood lost varies from a few 


388 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


drops—when it exudes from the minute capillary vessels 
or to several ounces—when it results from a rupture of the 
larger vessels of the tumor or to even a gill or more at a 
daily stool. This loss, however, unlike hemorrhages, 
from other organs—except in particular cases, rarely 
weakens the patient unless very profuse and long con¬ 
tinued. In some cases (Mucus Piles) there is but little 
or trifling discharge of blood, but in its stead there is 
frequent or indeed constant discharge of mucus which may 
be attended with much irritation and itching. In some, 
or indeed most cases, a discharge of mucus follows the 
hemorrhage, lasting for some days, or may even become 
habitual or chronic. 


FISSURE 

Beside the usual manifestation of Piles in the form of 
tumors and hemorrhages, there are what are termed 
fissures , which are openings in the skin and mucus mem¬ 
brane , located just at the verge of the anus where the skin 
passes over into the mucus membrane of the rectum. 

FISTULA—FISTULA IN ANO—FISTULA RECTI 

This condition when complete is a fistulous passage or 
opening from the rectum or gut, to the outside, which 
usually beginning, some inch or two or even more above 
the anus, and passing through the gut and tissue, forms 
an opening an inch or more on one side of the anus. 

PROLAPSUS ANO 

is also one of those conditions frequently connected with 
Piles. In this condition the rectum comes down during 
the straining at stool; and, indeed, in bad cases, even 
from walking or making any considerable effort. The 
spincture muscle surrounding the anus has become 
partially paralyzed and lost its power of contraction, so as 
to fail in forming a support for the rectum which, hence 
comes down, being turned inside out, for a space varying 
from half an inch to even two inches or more. Sometimes 
this condition becomes so inveterate and habitual as to 
require a constant mechanical support to enable the 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT. - DIS. OF ALIMENTARY TRACK. 389 

sufferer to get about. Simple falling of the rectum is 
quite frequent in children from the straining and relaxed 
tissue attendant upon diarrhoea or summer complaint. 

Treatment. —Apply Humphreys’ Witch Hazel 
Ointment (Comp.) after each stool and at night before 
retiring. This Ointment is a powerful healing antiseptic, 
which gives immediate relief by soothing the inflamed 
parts and destroying harmful germs. 

While the local application of Humphreys’ Witch 
Hazel Ointment (Comp.) relieves the irritation of the 
piles; we take for granted that you not only want relief 
from the irritation, but hope for permanent benefit. 

To effect this, in addition to the local application of 
Humphreys’ Witch Hazel Ointment (Comp.), take six 
pellets of Humphreys’ No. One for Congestion, before 
breakfast in the morning and six pellets of Humphreys’ 
No. Seventeen, for Piles, at night, letting them dissolve 
on the tongue; and in addition follow carefully the 
measures outlined below under “Hygiene.” 

The Humphreys’ Nos. One and Seventeen act 
internally to relieve the congestion which causes the piles; 
while the hygienic measures, if carefully followed will 
cure the constipation which caused the congestion and 
prevent a recurrence of the trouble at some later date. 

HYGIENE AND CONSTIPATION 

Piles have usually been caused by constipation, or by 
some effort to cure constipation and they cannot be 
permanently cured as long as the constipation still exists. 

Constipation is not a disease and cannot be cured by 
medicine. Constipation is really a bad habit and should 
be cured by adopting correct habits. 

Do not attempt to permanently cure constipation by 
the use of cathartics, laxatives, etc. They afford tempor¬ 
ary relief, but in the long run hinder a cure. When 
relief must be obtained it is much better to take an 
enema as described on page 391. 

The correct habits, which, if followed with perseverence, 
will ultimately surely cure constipation, are as follows: 


390 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


REGULAR HABITS 

As far as possible one should take his meals, go to bed, 
and get up at the same time every day, and what is still 
more important; have a definite time for going to the 
toilet, and go there every day at that time whether you 
have a “call’ 5 or not. 

The best time to go to the toilet is a short time after 
breakfast, go there at that time every day, and sit on the 
toilet, and think that your bowels are going to move. 
Do not strain and do not be in a hurry. If after sitting 
there for say five minutes, your bowels do not move don’t 
try any longer, but at the next convenient opportunity 
take an enema as described on page 391. 

WATER DRINKING 

Constipation is sometimes caused or aggravated by lack 
of water in the system, which causes the contents of the 
bowel to become too dry and hard to pass easily. 

One should drink from five to six glasses of water a 
day. Take one full glass as soon as you get up in the 
morning, and then, take half a glass at a time, frequently 
during the day. Frequent medium sized drinks are 
better than a few large ones. 

DIET 

For the bowels to move freely there must be something 
to move; and if we eat only concentrated foods with little 
waste matter, there will be too little left for the bowel to 
act upon; so avoid concentrated foods such as eggs, milk, 
meat, etc., and instead eat freely of less concentrated foods 
such as all forms of vegetables, salads and fruits. 

Drink plenty of water. 

EXERCISE 

Exercise is a very important factor in the treatment of 
constipation, and if your business is such that you do not 
get much exercise, you should plan to take exercise before 
or after business hours. 

The kind of exercise you take does not make much 
difference, walking, horseback riding, swimming, etc., 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-DIS. OF ALIMENTARY TRACK. 391 

are all good; or if so located that you cannot do enough 
of these, then do some “sitting up exercises” or “daily 
dozen” they will he of much help. 

POSTURE 

In connection with exercise, Posture, that is the way 
you stand or sit, is very important. When one is stooped 
over, either in standing or sitting, the bowels are out of 
their proper position and do not work as well as they should. 

In standing, hold the head high and the shoulders back, 
this has the effect of lifting the contents of the abdomen, 
and, in sitting, even if you must stoop over a desk, 
straighten up whenever you get an opportunity. 

ENEMAS 

When the bowels do not move of their own accord and 
something must be done to relieve the situation, the best 
thing to do is to take an enema. When properly taken, 
the enema is an absolutely harmless but very effective 
way of moving the bowels. However one should not get 
in the habit of taking them, and they should only be 
regarded as a means of temporary relief until such time 
as due to the other hygienic measures (Diet, Water 
Drinking, Exercise, Posture, etc.) the bowels will move 
by themselves. 

In order to properly take an enema it is necessary to 
have a general idea of the position and action of the 
intestines. 

The large intestine begins at the lower right side of the 
body, rises to the ribs, crosses over to the left side, 
descends the left side, passses across to the centre and 
then down to the anus, this last part from the turn down 
to the exit being about 8 inches long. 

The fecal matter of a day does not collect in the rectum 
or down portion of the bowel, but collects in the horizon¬ 
tal portion just before the turn. 

In washing out the intestine by an enema what we 
must do then, is to introduce the water into the rectum, 
and run it forward along the left side of the body to the 


392 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


turn at the ribs, then after a few moments, to soften any 
hardened masses, let it out again, bringing the fecal 
matter with it and leaving that portion of the bowel empty. 

To take an enema properly, the only apparatus neces¬ 
sary, is a fountain syringe with its hard rubber rectal tip. 

Put not over two quarts of water in the syringe and add 
a half spoonful of salt, the water should be just slightly 
warmer than the body. After running some of the warm 
water through the tube, to warm it, hang the bag in a 
convenient place, from 3 to 4 feet above the ground, not 
higher. 

Then lubricate the tip with Humphreys’ Witch Hazel 
Ointment (Comp.) and kneel on the floor and bend over 
until your chest touches the floor, this is known as the 
“Knee Chest Position”. In this position introduce the 
tip into the rectum and turn on the water. Do not let 
the water run fast, it should flow in gently and easily. 
If pain is experienced at any time, stop the flow for a 
moment, then the pain will usually and quickly subside 
and the water can be turned on again. The pain comes 
from gas in the intestines. 

The water will first fill the rectum and then go around 
the turn into the horizontal portion of the bowel, where 
the fecal matter collects and finally run up to the turn 
under the ribs. 

When you have either taken as much water as you 
think you need, or are having too much pain, shut off the 
flow and remove the tube. Then lie down on your left 
side for a moment, then turn to your back and raise your 
hips, then turn to the right side, after a moment in this 
position, reverse the action, go to the back, with the hips 
raised, then to the left side, and after another pause, go 
to the toilet and void the enema. 

In voiding the enema do not be in a hurry, what is 
voided at first is usually only the part that is in the 
rectum and the important part of the enema, that which 
has gotten into the horizontal and ascending portions of 
the bowel comes out later and usually in several move¬ 
ments. 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-DIS. OF ALIMENTARY TRACK. 393 


CONCLUSION 

Humphreys’ Witch Hazel Ointment (Comp.) is a 

powerful healing antiseptic which removes the local 
irritation of the piles. 

The Nos. One and Seventeen act to lessen the 
congestion which causes the piles. 

The hygienic measures will remove the constipation 
which was the cause of the congestion and will surely add 
greatly to the health and happiness of the person. 

HEPATITIS .—(Acute Inflammation of the Liver.) 

This disease is more common in the Southern States of 
the Union and in tropical climates, than in the Northern 
or Middle States. In the Southern States, the use of fat and 
heavy food, exposures to heavy dews or damps in the even¬ 
ing, and the powerful rays of the sun by day, are among 
its most frequent exciting causes. It may also be caused 
by violent mental emotions, the use of stimulants or ardent 
spirits, suddenly suppressed evacuations, violent emetics 
or purgatives, the abuse of mercury,'gall-stones, external 
lesions, or even injury of the brain. 

The symptoms differ according to the seat of the inflam¬ 
mation. When the outer or convex surface of the liver is 
inflamed, the symptoms closely resemble those of pleurisy; 
there is usually a violent burning pain in the right hypo- 
chondrium or liver region, sometimes resembling stitches, 
at others burning, shooting to the breast-bone, the shoulder- 
blade, or the point of the shoulder, or the right arm; sen¬ 
sation of numbness or tingling in the arm of that side, the 
pain increased by inspiration; a dry, short cough, and 
symptoms of acute fever; bowels irregular, generally con¬ 
stipated, and stools in most cases of an unnatural color. In 
this form of the disease, the patient can only lie on the left 
side. When the seat of the inflammation is upon the inner 
or concave surface of the liver, the pain is much less, and 
the patient complains rather of a sensation of pressure than 
of actual pain, but the entire biliary system is much more 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


S94 

involved. The eyes and face become yellow, as in case of 
jaundice; the urine is orange-colored, the evacuations 
mostly hard, and generally of a whitish or clay color. We 
also find bitter taste in the mouth, vomiting and distress in 
the region of the liver. The patient can only lie on the 
right side. The fever is usually high also. 

Inflammation of the liver, unless properly treated, is 
liable to assume a chronic form, and may also terminate in 
suppuration, and the matter may burrow into the lungs or 
the intestinal tract; or may form a vomica or point and dis¬ 
charge externally; or it may form indurations or other 
alterations of structure in the liver, or may result in the 
formation of adhesions. 

Treatment. —The No. One is the proper remedy from the 
first, and should be continued either alone or in alternation 
with some other remedy, until the disease is subdued. 
Dissolve twelve pellets in six spoonfuls of water, and 
of this give a large spoonful every hour for the first twenty- 
four or forty-eight hours, or until the fever is mostly 
subdued, and pain and distress relieved. Then prepare 
the No. Ten in the same manner, and give the two 
medicines in alternation, at intervals of two hours, until 
the disease is subdued and convalescence established. 

The diet should be the same as in fevers or other inflam¬ 
mations: toast-water, thin gruel of corn-meal or oat-meal, 
milli-toast or light meat-soups, according to the stage of 
the disease. 

LIVER COMPLAINT—CHRONIC INFLAMMATION OF 
THE LIVER—ENLARGEMENT OF THE LIVER. 

There are numerous morbid conditions of the liver which 
are popularly known as liver complaint, such as, enlarge¬ 
ment, softening, abscesses, adhesion with adjacent organs, 
or other results of acute inflammation. What passes as 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-DIS. OF THE ALIMENTARY TRACK. 395 


dyspepsia, is often some morbid condition or degeneration 
Df the liver. 

The symptoms of chronic inflammation of the liver are 
essentially those of acute inflammation, with the distinction 
of their duration, and their being less clearly expressed 
and their slower progress; and fever also only comes on 
after the disease has made considerable progress. The 
usual symptoms are as follows: Weight in the stomach after 
eating, flatulence, cramp of the stomach, acid eructuations, 
nausea, sometimes bilious vomiting, loss of appetite or 
canine hunger, thirst, whitish dry tongue, bitter taste, 
feeling of heat, heaviness, fullness or dull pain in the region 
Df the liver and epigastrium, and tenderness of these 
fegions on pressure; sometimes the pain is wanting or 
comes at irregular intervals, or is increased by exercise or 
filling the stomach; often sympathetic pains in the right 
shoulder, wandering pains in the limbs, alternating with 
those in the liver region; feeling of numbness or of para¬ 
lysis in the lower extremities. There is often distention of 
the liver region; protrusion of the liver down below the 
false ribs, especially in a sitting or upright position of the 
body; difficult lying on the left or on either side; consti¬ 
pation, feces hard, without bile, clay or putty-like; some¬ 
times diarrhoea, dark-mixed like tea-grounds, or flocculent 
stools; not unfrequently, vomiting of dark, adhesive, coa¬ 
gulated blood. The urine is thick, yellowish, oily, or scant, 
with thick sediment; often dry, hollow cough, with inability 
lo take a deep inspiration; yellow or an earthy pale com¬ 
plexion, but in some cases there is not a trace of jaundice 
present. Usually there is mental depression and despond¬ 
ency, unquiet sleep or sleeplessness. In the latter stages 
the pulse, which up to this period had been slower than in 
the normal condition, becomes feverish towards evening. 
The disease often makes but slow T progress, continuing ioi 
years, with frequent pauses at irregular intervals. 


396 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


Treatment. —The No. Ten is generally the best remedy, 
and may be taken in portions of six pellets, dry on 
the tongue, before each meal and on going to rest at night. 
Should there be at any time heat, fever or swelling, or 
tenderness of the region of the liver, the No. One 
should be administered in fluid form, six pellets every two 
hours, as directed for acute inflammation of this organ. 
Aside from this, the use of No. Ten should be 
relied upon in alternation for this disease. Diet as for 
Dyspepsia. 


ICTERUS.— (Jaundice). 

This disease is well known, and may occur to persons at 
all ages of life. It may continue for weeks, or even months, 
and there are some who are quite subject to such attacks. 
The disease generally commences with some form of indi¬ 
gestion, such as: Loss of appetite, somnolence, constant 
drowsy, full feeling, giddiness or swimming of the head, 
flatulence, nausea, vomiting, and there is some degree ot 
tension or sense of pressure in the region of the liver. 
Gradually the face and skin, and especially the whites of 
the eyes become yellow, and in some cases the skin becomes 
lark-brown, or even black, giving rise to the appellation of 
’‘black jaundice;” the urine becomes orange-colored, and 
the feces whitish, clay, or putty-like, and there may be pain 
in the region of the liver. There is also frequently a very 
disagreeable tingling of the skin. It is likewise attended 
tvith more or less depression of spirits and loss of strength. 
In general there is but little fever, but in severe cases there 
may be an unusual amount of fever, with a tendency to the 
brain, producing a sort of stupid sleep, from which the pa¬ 
tient is aroused with difficulty. This condition may be 
considered dangerous, as a fatal result may follow fiom 
oppression of the cerebral organs. 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DIS. OF THE ALIMENTARY TRACK. 397 


Causes. —Jaundice may b« produced: 1. By some impedi¬ 
ment to the flow of bile into the duodenum, and the conse* 
quent absorption of the retained bile; and 2. by defective 
secretion on the part of the liver, so that the constituents 
of the bile are not separated from the blood. Pressure of 
the enlarged womb in pregnancy, or the growth of tumors, 
causing obstruction of the gall-ducts, are also occasional 
causes. But sedentary occupations, mental anxiety , and high 
living, are probably the most frequent. 

Gall-Stones. —A not uncommon impediment to the flow 
of bile is the impaction of a gall-stone in the natural channels 
of the bile. A gall-stone consists of bile in a crystalline 
form, the solvent properties having been released. The 
pain attending the passage of gall-stones is very severe; 
comes on suddenly, with paroxysm, often accompanied by 
vomiting, hiccough, etc.; is constant for a time, and termin¬ 
ates suddenly, and is thus distinguished from Colic, and by 
the pains being of a more local character, and in the site of 
the gall-duct. 

When the disease has been caused from some unusual 
emotion, it may come on very suddenly, but in general it 
comes on in a very gradual, and not unfrequently, unob¬ 
served manner. It may be caused by acute or chronic 
inflammation of the liver; or from diseases of the stomach, 
or other portions of the intestinal track; blows upon the 
head, or in the region of the liver, may produce the disease; 
also moral emotions, or violent fits of passion; the in¬ 
ordinate use of chamomile tea, quinine, rhubarb, calomel, 
©r mercury, may also be mentioned as causes, as these agents 
often tend to obstruct the biliary duct. 

Treatment. — The Number One and No. Ten are 
the proper remedies. In slight cases, six pellets of No. 
One each morning, and six pellets of No. Ten before each 
meal and at night will be sufficient. Should the disease be 
more decided and well marked, and the patient have some 


398 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


degree of fever, the two remedies mentioned may “be taken 
in alternation, six pellets every two hours until amendment 
occurs, and then at somewhat longer intervals 

The diet should be of easily-digested food, free from con¬ 
diments or stimulants of any kind, and may consist chiefly 
of chicken or veal soup, with stale bread, tapioca, sago or 
rice, and gruels made of arrow-root, corn-starcli or farina. 
The drink should be principally water, and all stimulating 
or tonic bitters made of cider, barks, or wine, should be 
avoided, and especially all indigestible food, such as eggs, 
butter, fat-meats, milk, etc. 

Accessory Means. —Flannel squeezed after immersion in 
hot water, or a hot hip-bath, relieves pain. Jaundice from 
inactivity and chronic congestion of the liver requires 
change of air and scene, travelling, daily walking , or horse- 
exercise , regular and temperate habits, and the use of itc■ 
abdominal compress. 


DISEASES OF THE URINARY SYSTEM. 


ALBUMINURIA. 

This is defined as a morbid condition of the urine, 
symptomatic of renal disease, but not always a result of it; 
and manifested by the presence of albumen. 

Albuminuria is not Bright’s disease. But it is always 
associated with it, and it may exist prior to and inde¬ 
pendently of any renal disease. If there is neither blood or 
pus in the urine, and nevertheless it is coagulable in even 
a slight degree, thus indicating the presence of albumen, it 
does not follow that there is any structural change in the 
substance of the kidney. It may be a symptom of several 
diseases or conditions and may even be a consequence of 
cold bathing. It may occur in febrile or inflammatory 
diseases; dyspepsia; excessive albuminous diet, as eggs; 
prolonged or very frequent cold bathing, by repressi n; the 
cutaneous secretion increases the blood pressure of internal 
organs, and so may produce degeneration in the structure 
of the kidneys. Occasional bathers are more likely to suffer 
than active swimmers. The symptoms are, that the quan¬ 
tity, color and density of the urine is natural, and yet it 
coagulates by heat or nitric acid. 

Treatment.— When associated with inflammatory disease 
or cold bathing, give No. One, six pellets before meals 
and at bed time. If from dyspepsia use the No. Ten 
in the same manner. If chronic the No. Twenty-seven 
at the same intervals and doses will be found 
effective 


m 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOB, 


NEPHRITIS .—(Inflammation of the Kidneys). 

This disease is known by a pungent aching pain in the 
small of the back, on one side, generally the left, alongside 
of the spine, in the region of the kidneys. The pain is 
constant, and but slightly increased by contact or pressure, 
extending forward and downward along the course of the 
ureter. The secretion of urine is diminished when only 
one kidney is affected, and even entirely arrested in those 
rare cases where both are involved. There is frequent 
urging to urination, pain in tne urethra, especially at the 
neck of the bladder during urination, sometimes even 
cramps of the bladder, and hence difficulty in voiding it. 
The urine is dark red, and often shows traces of blood. 
Not unfrequently the bladder becomes involved, and occa¬ 
sions a permanent constrictive pain in that region, which is 
increased by contact or pressnre over the part. There is 
likewise nausea or even actual vomiting; sharp, decided 
fever, usually commencing with a severe chill, followed by 
heat; dry, hot skin; coated tongue; extreme thirst; full, 
hard, tense pulse. 

The disease is rather rare, but it may arise in conse¬ 
quence of gout, or renal calculi, or be occasioned by a fall, 
or injury in the kidney region; or by suppression of the 
hemorrhoidal or menstrual flow; or by the use of certain 
medicines, such as squills, cantharides, turpentine, etc. 

Treatment.— If there is considerable fever, the treat¬ 
ment may commence with the No. One, of which six 
pellets may be dissolved in water and given every half- 
hour for three or four hours. Then the No. Thirty 
may be given in alternation with it at the same intervals. 
Dissolve twelve pellets of each of No. One and of No. 
Thirty, in six spoonfuls of water, in separate glasses, and 
of these give every hour a spoonful in alternation, until the 
fever has abated; then substitute the No. Twenty-seven 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-DIS. OF THE URINARY SYSTEM. ^ 


for the No. Olie^ and so continue these two (No. Twenty 
Seven and No. Thirty) in alternation, at increasing 
intervals as the disease improves, until convalescence ia 
established. The diet should be the same as in fevers or 
inflammation; only light soups, gruels, toast, etc., and 
vine, malt-liquor or other stimulants should be strictly 
avoided. 

BRIGHT’S DISEASE OF THE KIDNEY. 

This disease has become better understood of late years, 
and has attracted much attention from its persistent cha¬ 
racter and the number of its victims. It has several formr, 
which may be included in an inflammation of one or both 
kidneys producing a morbid condition of the gland and its 
secretions. 

The symptoms of Acute Nephritis, or Acute Bright’s 
Kidney are: Anasarca of the upper as well as the lower 
parts of the body; the face, hands, as well as the fe.3t are 
puffy and swollen; febrile symptoms; a dry, harsh skin; 
quick, hard pulse; thirst; and often sickness from sympathy 
with the stomach or kidneys. The skin is tense with infil¬ 
tration of serous fluid through the subcutaneous aveolar 
tissue, but is not doughy, does not pit. Frequent passage 
of urine, which is scanty, high colored, or smoky looking, 
albuminous and of high specific gravity. Examined by 
the microscope, blood corpuscles may be seen in it, and 
granular casts of the minute tubes of the kidneys, the kid¬ 
neys themselves being in an active state of congestion if 
not of inflammation. Tested by heat or nitric acid the 
urine will dejiosit albumen. This condition has been called 
desquamative nephritis, from the rapid separation of epi¬ 
thelium which goes on. These renal symptoms are some¬ 
times complicated with pleurisy, pericarditis, or peritonitis. 
It is frequently the effect of fever, especially scarlet fevet 


m 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOEfc 


generally coming on in its later stages; exposure to wet and 
cold; action of irritating drugs, alcohol, etc. 

Treatment. —The Number One and No. Thirty 
will generally be found effective. Dissolve twelve pellets of 
each in six spoonsful of water in separate glasses, of which 
give a spoonful once in three or four hours, alternately, 
according to the urgency of the case. Give the patient a 
milk diet, and mostly vegetable food. 

CHRONIC NEPHRITIS. BRIGHT’S KIDNEY. 

Symptoms. —Debility, general impairment of health, and 
pallor of the surface, coming on insidiously with pain in the 
loins and frequent desire to pass water, particularly at 
night, the quantity at first being increased. The patient’s 
face becomes pallid, pasty, and oedematous or puffy, so that 
the features are flattened; and there is loss of appetite, acid 
eructations, nausea, and frequent sickness, which nothing in 
his diet will account for. The urine will be found to be of 
less specific gravity than natural; it is also albuminous and 
coagulates by heat or nitric acid. There is most albumen 
in the beginning of the dis ase, as the kidneys are then more 
congested, and towards the last it is heavier and may go 
down to 1.004, and the quantity becomes very small. At 
first, the urine may be very dark or smoky color, from con¬ 
taining blood corpuscles; but it afterwards becomes paler. 
The kidney itself becomes large and white. 

The disease progresses slowly; but sooner or later there 
is anemia in consequence of the blood losing its albumen, 
and so is incapable of producing or maintaining the floating 
cells characteristic of healthy blood (Edema of the feet 
and ankles is present; and, in advanced stages, there may be 
ascites or general dropsy. But dropsy is not invariably a 
marked symptom of this disease, and in some cases is 
scarcely observed. Death arises from uraemia, an accumu- 


DISEASE and TREATMENT.—DIS. OE THE URINARY system. 403 


lation of urine in the blood, from the kidneys being unable 
to excrete it. Urea acts as a poison to the brain, producing 
delirium, convulsion and coma, of which latter the patient 
dies. Sometimes from the ursemic poisoning of the blood, 
inflammation of a serous membrane arises, especially peri¬ 
carditis or endocarditis, inducing valvular disease of the 
heart, and then the patient becomes extremely dropsical 
and is carried off by asphyxia from complication of heart 
and kidney disease. 

Chronic nephritis often follows acute nephritis; or it may 
result from bad living, intemperance, constant exposure to 
wet, struma, gout. Painters, plumbers, and workers in lead 
are very liable to the disease. Both kidneys are usually 
affected, probably from defective assimilation or some 
change of nutrition. 

Treatment. —The remedies most appropriate in the more 
chronic form of this disease are the No. Twenty-seven 
and the No. Thirty. They may usually be given in doses 
of six pellets and repeated one dose every three or four 
hours, in alternation, and will be more effective if each is 
given dissolved in a spoonful of water. Should the dropsy 
be extreme, the No. Twenty-five may be substituted for 
No. Thirty with advantage, and thus the No. Twenty-five 
and No. Twenty-seven be given in alternation. When 
patients are yet about and able to attend to their business 
the medicines may be taken dry, six pellets at a dose and 
repeated four times per day. 

Diet and Accessory Means.— Brilliant results have been 
obtained by an exclusively milk diet, when other treatment 
has failed; an adult sometimes taking as much as a gallon 
in twenty-four hours. It may be taken cold or tepid and 
from half a pint to a pint at a time. A vegetable diet is 
likewise recommended. Warm baths and vapour baths 
are beneficial in lessening the dropsy and promoting the 
Wealthy function of the skin. If there should be much 


404 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


anemia, warm baths should be used with discretion. Warm 
clothing, woolen garments, favor the free action of the skin; 
and chills and cold draughts should be guarded against. 
By such means and the action of appropriate remedies 
patients suffering from chronic kidney disease may be 
spared in reasonable health for many years, enjoying the 
pleasures and fulfilling the duties of life. 

Degeneration of the kidneys, bright’s disease, or renal 
calculi, after having become well established or chronic, are 
incurable. Only in the early stages and in the milder 
forms are they amenable to treatment. In these latter cases 
take No. Twenty-seven and No. Thirty, six pellets every 
four hours in alternation. 

CYSTITIS .—(Inflammation of the Bladdery 

This disease is not very common in its more severe forms, 
but in its slighter manifestations, is not unfrequently met 
with. It may be occasioned by the abuse of cantharides or 
other deleterious drugs, or from suppressed piles, or the 
menstrual flow. Also, blows or injuries, or the immoderate 
use of alcoholic stimulants may excite its appearance. The 
acute form is known by pain and sense of weight in the 
bladder; also by tension, heat and swelling externally in 
that region; severe pains when the region of the bladder is 
pressed upon or even touched; frequent and painful dis¬ 
charge of urine, or suppressed, scanty discharge, or fre¬ 
quent, painful or even ineffectual efforts to pass the urine; 
fever, rigors, and vomiting are common. When the neck of 
the bladder is principally involved, the spasms may be so 
great that the urine is only passed in drops under the most 
powerful straining, and the bladder becomes distended and 
mounts like a hard painful ball over the public bone in front; 
if the lower or posterior portion is principally involved, the 
pain is increased by pressure on the perinseum. The urine 
is hot, reddish or high colored, but in some cases quite pale; 
and sometimes there may be a discharge of mucus or pus 
tinged with blood. It is rare among young people, and 
mostly a disease of advanced life. 

Treatment. —When there is fever, the No. One may 
be given in alternation with No. Thirtv ? but in gen- 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DIS. OF THE URINARY SYSTEM. 405 

eral the latter remedy will be found sufficient alone. Dis¬ 
solve twelve pellets of No. Thirty in six large spoonfuls 
of water, and of these give one every half hour if the pain, 
straining, and distress is very great. But if there is con¬ 
siderable fever, prepare the No. One in the same manner, 
and give the two in alternation at intervals of half an 
hour at first, and gradually increase the intervals to an 
hour or two hours, as the disease yields. Hot fomentations 
to the parts may be of service, should the painful urging 
and tenesmus be severe. 

Chronic Cystitis is more common; and may be the sequel 
to an acute attack; or may be caused by calculi, disease of 
the prostate gland, stricture, etc.; but the most common 
cause is inability of the bladder to empty itself , either from 
loss of muscular power of its coats, or prostatic enlarge¬ 
ment. The decomposing urine then becomes a source of 
irritation to the mucous lining of the bladder; the urea is 
soon decomposed into carbonate of ammonia, and this salt 
is acrid and irritating, and the bladder in time acquires a 
condition which has been aptly compared to that of a badly- 
washed utensil. The symptoms are the same as described 
under the acute form, though to a modified extent; but 
while the pain is less, the discharge is generally greater. 
The mucus is often very abundant, a pint or more being 
often passed in a day, and it becomes very tenacious on 
standing, so that when a vessel containing the urine of such 
a patient is emptied, an abundance of ropy mucus follows 
the urine in a mass. 

Cystitis may be distinguished from Inflammation of the 
kidneys , thus in the former the pain travels upwards, 
towards the loins; while in the latter the pain extends 
from the loins down to the bladder. 

Treatment .—To allay the chronic irritability 
of the bladder, and restore, if possible, the organ to its 
natural condition, the No. Twenty-seven and No. 


406 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


Thirty are the proper remedies, and of these six pellets 
should be taken, in alternation, morning and at night, or 
even four times per day, taking of No. Thirty six pellets 
each morning before breakfast, and afternoon before supper, 
and of No. Twenty-Seven, each noon before dinner, 
and at night upon going to rest. 

For an attack of painful or difficult urination, the No. 
Thirty should be given in fluid, twelve pellets in six 
spoonfuls of water, and of these let one spoonful be given 
every half hour, or hour, until the pain and spasm has abated 
and the urine passes freely. Then return again to the No. 
Twenty-seven and No. Thirty for the treatment of 
the chronic disorder. The No. Ten may often in such 
cases prove exceedingly beneficial, either alone or in alter¬ 
nation with No. Thirty. 

Accessory Measures. —For the relief of pain, hot fomen¬ 
tations; and in acute cases, rest in the horizontal posture. 
The warm hip-bath, the abdominal compress, and mucila¬ 
ginous drinks, favor recovery. 

CATARRH OF THE BLADDER 

Old chronic irritations and frequent inflammation of the 
bladder, are apt to result in a chronic irritation and thicken¬ 
ing of the mucus membrane of the bladder, urethra and 
surrounding organs. This results in frequent desire to 
urinate; the fluid is forcibly or spasmodically ejected in 
small quantities, and the passage is attended with aching, 
burning or spasmodic pain, (strangury). The pain may be 
confined to the bladder or extends to the end of the penis, 
round the pelvis or down the thighs. The urine may or 
may not be unnatural; but when the disease has become 
chronic, mucus or pus is passed with it, thus constituting 
what is called Catarrh of the Bladder. Healthy persons 
lirinate on an average five or six times in the twenty-four 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.— DIS. OF THE URINARY SYSTEM. 407 

hours, but when there is inflammation or a degree of irrb 
tation, a slight distention is painful and the calls are more 
frequent. 

Treatment. — The Number Twenty-Seven and 
No. Thirty are the appropriate remedies, and may be 
taken in ordinary cases four times per day. The No. 
Thirty each morning and afternoon, and the No. 
Twenty-Seven at noon and at bed time, six pellets at 
a time. If urgent, the medicines may be taken one dose 
every three hours. This treatment has relieved thousands 
of the most inveterate cases. 

CALCULUS.— {Stone, — Gravel). 

In the urine, are washed away refuse matters arising 
from digestion, assimilation and the wear and tear of the 
body. Any departure therefore, from the healthy process 
of digestion and nutrition is sure to be followed by a de¬ 
parture from the natural properties of the urine. A deposit 
may exist occasionally in small quantity unnoticed; it is the 
constant or abundant presence which furnishes important 
evidence of disease; but a frequent sediment* should never 
be disregarded. 

The most common varieties of calculus are, the lithio de¬ 
posit (observed in fever, chronic liver-disease, etc., forming 
pink or brick-dust-like coloring-matter in the urine). "When 
abundant, as in more advanced stages, it is commonly called 
red-gravel , and chiefly occurs in robust persons of florid 
appearance, who live high and suffer from irritable gastric 


* Definition. —A precipitate settling from the urine after it has been 
voided, it is called a sediment ; when formed in the bladder or kidneys, 
it is called gravel , the urine being muddy as it passes; and when 
gravel, lodging in any of the urinary passages, becomes concrete, it is 
called stone. When the urine of a person habitually presents any one 
kind of deposit, he is generally said to have a corresponding diathesis ; 
as the lithic diathesis, etc. 



408 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


dyspepsia; and sometimes are associated with rheumatism 
and chronic skin diseases, but most frequently with gout; 
the uric acid condition often alternates in the same indi¬ 
viduals with gout; even in generations this may be ob¬ 
served, gout manifesting itself in one, gravel in the second, 
and gout again in the third. This is the most common 
variety, and may occur at any age. The phosphatic, usually 
depends (unless arising from changes in the bladder) on 
atonic Dyspepsia, and an anaemic or broken-down state of 
the constitution, and occurs chiefly in the aged; the oxalic , 
which evidences feeble powers of assimilation, and ex¬ 
haustion of the nervous system, from over-work, anxiety, 
or veneral excesses. The patient is usually pale and hypo¬ 
chondriacal, suffers from disturbed sleep, acidity, etc. 
There is no gravel or sediment, properly speaking; the par¬ 
ticles of oxalate float as crystals in the urine, or subside if 
it be allowed to stand, but are not in large quantity. 

In the adult male, stone is most common' between the 
ages of fifty and seventy, or, perhaps, between the ages of 
fifty-five and seventy-five; and it has a history something 
like the following:—A calculus, in eighteen or nineteen 
cases out of twenty, has uric acid for its basis, the uric acid 
or gouty tendency (for the diseases are identical) being 
hereditary; and the first symptoms are frequent deposits of 
pinkish matter in the urine on cooling, resembling minute 
particles of cayenne pepper, which are first formed in the 
kidneys. When a patient habitually or frequently passes 
urine which yields a pinkish deposit on cooling, and which 
cannot be traced to cold weather, errors in diet, or other' 
accidental causes, he has what is called the uric acid dia¬ 
thesis. Afterwards, these cayenne-pepper-like particles 
become aggregrated, forming little calculi, popularly known 
as “sand” or “gravel;” then, again, these tend in time to 
become larger, often as large as peas, or even beans. 
During the descent of the calculus from the kidney to tk~ 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DIS. OE THE URINARY SYSTEM. 409 


bladder, the patient complains of severe pain in the back, 
hip, groin, and testicle, and great discomfort. In a day or 
two, or earlier, it is usually voided with the urine, and thus 
the matter is disposed of. But when the bladder is unable 
to expel the calculus by its natural efforts, the calculus in¬ 
creases in size, by deposit on its surface, and in time & 
stone is formed that cannot be removed except by an 
operation. Some are smooth and roundish, others rough 
and ragged, and irregular, or like scales; more commonly, 
brown or of reddish chocolate color, or of amber color, or 
chalk-like, etc. 

Symptoms. —There are four very conclusive symptoms: 
2. Increased frequency of passing water , chiefly during the 
day, and when moving about, riding on horseback, and less 
so at night and when at rest. 2. Pain in the glans penis 
during and immediately after micturation , and a continuous 
desire to j)ass water for a few minutes until fresh urine 
trickles down and separates the stone from the lining of 
the neck of the bladder, which is a highly sensitive part- 
As soon as sufficient urine collects, relief is experienced. 
Pain at the end of the penis is highly diagnostic of stone in 
the bladder. Pain low down in the abdomen is generally 
due to chronic inflammation of the bladder. Pain before 
urinating is generally caused by a sensitive or inflamed 
mucous membrane. 3. The urine contains muco-pus , such 
as is found in cystitis, only to a greater amount. With 
calculus the urine is almost invariably clouded by mucus or 
pus.* 4. Blood is passed from time to time, and the quantity 

* It is important to discriminate between nrine clouded by mucus 
or pus, and urine clouded by deposited salts. In cold weather the 
arine, on cooling, readily deposits its lithates, where none would be 
seen in hot weather. On the application of heat it becomes quite 
clear, which is never the case if the thickness be caused by pus or 
mucus. Occasional thickness of urine from lithates is of no great 
importance. But if the deposit be constant and heavy, habits must 
be corrected, diet restricted, and indigestion removed. If the urine 
does not become clear with heat, an organic compound is the cause 
or the thickness, and the source of it must be investigated 



416 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOS. 


is increased by much exercise, such as riding in a springiest 
carriage, or over a rough road, on horseback, much walk¬ 
ing, and by all rapid movements of the body. But if the 
patient remain quiet no blood at all may be passed, or a 
mere drop or two, with pain in the last expulsive effort at 
urination. Generally the urine has a florid tint, while 
blood passed from the kidneys gives the urine a brownish 
color from long contact of the urine with the blood. The 
same remark applies to haemorrhage due to enlarged pro¬ 
state. The four symptoms occurring simultaneously, un¬ 
mistakably indicate stone in the bladder. But, if additional 
evidence be desired, there are the chemical tests of the urine, 
and the sound , an instrument, bent a little shorter than the 
ordinary catheter, by means of which nearly every portion 
of the bladder can be explored. 

Prevention of Calculus Disease. —Cider has a beneficial 
influence on those who possess a lithic diathesis. Milk, 
however, has the reputation of being the great anti-lithic. 

The classes of food which it is especially necessary to 
restrict are: 1 . sugar , in whatever form or combination this 
substance is presented; 2. fatty matters —butter, cream, and 
fat meat—whether simply cooked, or in the form of pastry; 
3. alcohol, especially in the form of sherry, port, and the 
stronger wines; tea and coffee; also strong beer, champagne, 
etc. Abstinence from these substances is recommended on 
the ground that the labor of the liver will be thus greatly 
lightened, and correspondingly the vicarious work of the 
kidneys will be diminished. Filtered rain, or soft or distilled 
water, has a very great solvent power, and may be taken to 
the extent of two or three pints daily. Further, a fair 
amount of open-air exercise daily, and the promotion of 
the healthy functions of the skin by bathing, frictions, and 
suitable clothing, as directed in the first part of this Mentor. 

Treatment of the Diathesis. —Patients having a predis¬ 
position to the formation of stone, especially if they have 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-DIS. OF THE URINARY SYSTEM. 411 

passed calculi with their urine, require medical treatment 
and careful supervision to correct the tendency; for 
although useless to remove a stone of size, remedies aid in 
the expulsion of sand or gravel; and also correct the ten¬ 
dency to such formations. Under our treatment many 
patients who formerly passed small calculi have entirely 
ceased to do so. 

First and foremost, all avoidable causes must be removed 
—high living, the use of alcoholic liquors, and insufficient 
exercise, on the one hand; and over-work, anxiety, and 
excesses of all kinds, on the other. Dyspeptic symptoms 
should be met by such means as are pointed out in the 
section on dyspepsia; and any other concurrent disorders 
should be corrected. Removal to a locality where pure soft 
water can be procured is often alone curative. 

All cases in which there is even room for a suspicion 
of stone, should be at once placed under good Homeopathic 
treatment. 

Treatment.— For an attach of gravel or renal calculi, at¬ 
tended with pain as before mentioned, frequent desire to 
urinate, etc., give the No. Thirty, twelve pellets in six 
spoonfuls of water, of which give a spoonful every 
half hour. Give the patient a hot foot or sitz bath, or 
apply hot fomentations over the side of the abdomen where 
the pain is; or give large injections of warm water so as to 
relax the system and arrest the spasm, and so facilitate the 
passage of the gravel. 

To prevent the formation of the calculi, take of the No. 
Thirty, six pellets at night, and of the No. Twenty- 
seven, six pellets each morning, and so continue for 
months. 

Persons afflicted with this disease should subsist as far 
as possible upon farinaceous food and mucilaginous drinks, 
in preference to the more heavy and heating meats. 


412 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


STRANGUARY.— {Difficult, painful, or suppressed urination). 

We group together these various conditions of morbid 
urination, as they frequently arise from the same causes, 
run into each other in the progress of the complaint, and 
generally require the same remedies. 

When the urine is retained, while the kidneys continue to 
secrete the fluid, the bladder becomes after a few hours so 
filled and distended, that it rises like a large ball or swelling, 
immediately over the pubes, which maybe perceptible to 
the touch. The lower portion of the abdomen also becomes 
swelled and sensitive to pressure. There is some fever, 
and the inclination to pass water is frequent and urgent, 
though ineffectual. Should this condition continue any 
great length of time, inflammation and subsequent morti¬ 
fication may ensue, or the bladder become ruptured with 
fatal result. 

Retention may be caused by inflammation of the urethra* 
or from stricture, or it may result from suppressed piles. 
Going too long without urinating, and hence over-distention 
of the bladder may in some cases close the internal orifice 
of the organ; or it may be occasioned by spasm of the neck 
of the bladder. Paralysis or inflammation of the neck of 
the bladder may also produce it. Also tumors in the neck 
of the bladder, or calculus or swelling of the prostate gland. 

Difficulty of discharging the urine is manifested by fre¬ 
quent desire to urinate, attended with heat, smarting pain, 
uneasiness and a sense of distention and fullness in the 
region of the bladder. The urine is only voided in drops 
or small quantities, sometimes mixed with blood, after great 
urging or straining. 

This condition may be occasioned by gonorrhoea or in¬ 
flammation of the urethra, spasm of the neck of the bladder 
excesses in drinking, exposure to cold in sensitive subjects, 
suppression of some habitual discharge, presence of gravel 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DIS. OF THE URINARY SYSTEM. 413 

In the neck of the bladder or urethra, or from the appli¬ 
cation of cantharides in the form of a blister. 

In some rare cases the secretion of urine may be suppres¬ 
sed, the kidneys failing to elaborate this secretion from the 
blood. It mostly occurs in persons of advanced age, or in 
very young children. It may occur in the course of fevers 
or in dropsy, or inflammation of some organ of the body. 
Gouty subjects, particularly after being exposed to cold or 
wet, or on the suppression of some accustomed discharge, 
such as hemorrhoids, are most liable to it. Generally there 
is no inclination to make water, there being no accumu¬ 
lation; and there is no swelling or enlargement in the region 
of the bladder, indicating an accumulation. Other s} T mp~ 
toms are: Nausea, sense of weakness and sinking at the 
praecordia, sometimes there is also frequent turns of vomit¬ 
ing, severe hiccough, pain in the back, intense headache 
and restlessness. The skin generally presents a normal 
condition, but profuse perspiration sometimes supervenes, 
in some cases with a decided urinous odor. If the secretion 
is not again established, the system soon suffers, the blood 
is not purified, and cerebral symptoms declare themselves, 
and life terminates in coma. 

Treatment. —When there is retention of urine, frequent 
effort, and but little or no discharge, the No. Thirty 
should be given dissolved in water, six pellets in a 
spoonful, and repeated every hour, or even every half 
hour in urgent cases. Hot fomentations applied to the 
region of the bladder, and warm seat-baths, are also very 
efficient auxiliaries. 

Painful ,, difficult urination requires nearly the same 
treatment, only there is less necessity for seat-baths 
or warm fomentations. The No. Thirty may be taken, 
six pellets dry on the tongue and repeated every two hours, 
will be sufficient in most cases. Should there be calculus, 
tumors, or other mechanical obstructions in the neck of the 


414 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR 


bladder or urethra, the case will be more obstinate, yet the 
use of the medicine and warm fomentations will be proper, 
and generally efficient. If the urethra is inflamed, the 
same treatment as in gonorrhoea must be pursued. 

When the secretion of the kidneys appears scanty or 
suppressed, take No. Eleven, either alone or in alternation 
with No. Thirty, at intervals of two or three hours. 

ENURESIS .—(Urinary Incontinence—Wetting the bed). 

This difficulty is manifested in a frequent desire to pass 
off the water, and an inability to retain it for any length of 
time after the inclination comes on. Sometimes the call 
comes on every hour, or even more frequently during the 
day, and the urgency is very pressing. It may arise from 
weakness or relaxation of the neck of the bladder, or from 
the urine being too acrid or irritating, or from the presence 
of gravel, or some diseased condition of the bladder itself. 

A frequent phase of this disease manifests itself in the 
involuntary discharge of the urine at night, or what is 
termed “wetting the bed.” It is mostly noticed amoung 
children under ten or twelve years of age, but has occasion¬ 
ally been known to continue to adult age. Sometimes it 
appears in children apparently disconnected from any other 
morbid condition of the urinary organs; the child has per¬ 
fect control while awake, but during the unconsciousness 
of sleep the system becomes relaxed and the urine is passed 
involuntarily. It may arise in some cases from the irritation 
of worms, or from the secretion being too acrid, but in 
general its foundation, especially in obstinate cases, will be 
found in scrofulous diathesis. 

Treatment. —In all cases of frequent calls to urinate or 
inability to retain the secretion, the No. Thirty, three 
pellets for children, three times per day, will be sufficient, 
and be found promptly curative. 

When the disease may be supposed to arise from the 
irritation of worms, the No. Two may be given in 
alternation with No. Thirty, each taken twice per day. 

In obstinate cases of wetting the bed, No. Twenty-two 
should be given, three, pellets for children every morning 
on rising, and No. Thirty, three pellets at night. 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DIS. OF THE URINARY SYSTEM. 415 

In the case of children subject to this infirmity, care 
should be taken not to let them drink of water or other 
fluid late in the evening, or on going to bed;not to permit 
them to eat apples, acid fruits, watermelons or cantelopes 
late in the afternoon or evening, to use no kind of drink 
calculated to stimulate urinary secretion; also when child¬ 
ren are subject to this infirmity, have them urinate the 
last thing before retiring, also very early in the morning, 
and on no account suffer them to lie in the wet clothes. 

DIABETES .—(Excessive Secretion of Urine-) 

A disease of the pancreas, one of the most important 
organs concerned in digestion, manifested by an excessive 
discharge of pale, sugary urine, the sugar being formed in 
the system from the starch or saccharine matter in the 
food. There is a sense of sickness, debility, and pro¬ 
gressive emaciation; red, fissured tongue, and enlarged 
papilla; intense thirst and frequent urination; voracious 
appetite and sinking of the stomach; bowels usually cos¬ 
tive, and stool hard and dry; harsh and dry skin; the 
breath has a peculiar violet or chloroform-like smell; boils 
or carbuncles, or swellings of the legs are frequent attend¬ 
ants ; the insatiable thirst is one of the most characteristic 
symptoms. The quantity of urine is usually greatly in 
excess, amounting to from eight to twenty or more pints 
in the twenty-four hours. It is usually of a pale, straw 
color, has a faint smell of apple, hay, or milk, and is 
specifically heavy, according to the amount of sugar it 
contains. Diabetic urine may be tested in various ways: 
will ferment with the addition of yeast, or leave a residuum 
like molasses on evaporation. 

There is another form of diabetes characterized by an 
excessive discharge of clear, colorless urine, but which is 
devoid of sugar. There is thirst, a harsh, dry skin, and 
mental and physical weakness present. 

In recent years the starvation plan of treatment of 
diabetes has proved most successful. We seek at first to 
eliminate the sugar from the system, and secondly to find 
the sugar tolerance of each patient. This latter varies 


416 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR 


greatly in different individuals. The patient must abso¬ 
lutely abstain for 48 hours from all food of any kind. A 
saline cathartic, such as Rochelle salts, must be taken each 
morning of the fast. It is desirable to remain fairly quiet 
during the fasting period to conserve the strength although 
it is not necessary to stay in bed. Water may be taken 
freely. Gradually return to the normal diet giving at first 
only two light meals a day and avoiding starches and 
sugar forming articles of diet. A sample of the urine 
should be sent occasionally to a laboratory for analysis of 
the sugar content. Upon a return of any of the symptoms 
or the reappearance of the sugar in the urine the fasting 
must be repeated and the diet again restricted until each 
patient finds his sugar tolerance. 

Treatment. —In diabetes the patient must avoid all forms 
of starch or sugar, and the foods containing them; but 
should live on other abundant nutritious food. Fat meat, 
fish, oysters, eggs, milk and soups thickened with finely 
powdered bran, but no bread, potatoes, grapes, pears, 
berries, melons, or other sweet, rich fruits. As a substitute 
for bread, bran ground fine and mixed with eggs and a 
little butter, and hard baked, may be used. The thirst may 
be gratified with water, which rather benefits than other¬ 
wise. The patient may also drink freely of skim-milk. 
It may be made a regular diet and as much as seven or ten 
pints may be taken daily in fluid, or two or three pints of 
the amount may be made into curd daily and taken in 
that form. 


HEMATURIA.—( Hemorrhage with the urine). 

Occasionally the urine is found of a more or less deeply 
reddish tinge, and an examination shows the presence of 
blood. Sometimes quite a proportion of the discharge con¬ 
sists of blood, and at other times there is but a slight 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-DIS. OF THE URINARY SYSTEM. 417 

admixture. It may arise from any cause that separates anj 
of the minute blood vessels along its course. Thus, falls, 
blows, bruises, leaping, running, any violent exercise, or 
a lodgment of a stone in the kidney, urethra, or bladder, or 
an inflammation of the kidney may occasion it. Irregular 
menstruation, suppression of piles, excessive indulgence in 
spirituous drinks, venereal excesses, the use of asparagus 
or cantharides may at times induce it. 

■When the blood is discharged in streaks or dots, and de¬ 
posits, on standing, a dark brown sediment like coffee 
grounds, it is likely to have come from the irritating effects 
of a stone in the bladder, and the act of urinating is 
attended with some straining and effort. If it proceeds 
Irom the kidneys, there will be pain in the lumbar region; 
anxiety; numbness along the inside of one or both thighs; 
drawing up of the testicles, and derangement of the bowels. 

The presence of blood in the urine is always a serious 
matter, and should demand our attention. In most cases 
it is controllable, but should not be neglected. 

Treatment. —The No. Thirty will generally be found 
sufficient, and should always be tried first, six pellets 
dissolved in a spoonful of water, and given every two or 
three hours, gradually increasing the intervals. 

Should the disease arise from the kidneys, and especially 
if there should be an appearance of pus or matter in 
the secretion, it will be better to alternate the No. 
Twenty-seven and No. Thirty, six pellets at a time, 
and say four times per day, continuing this course. 

Drinking of cold water is objectionable, and tends to 
increase the irritation. Barley-water in large quantities is 
the best drink. 

Should these remedies not control the disease, and espe¬ 
cially if the amount of blood in the urine is quite copious, 
half a teaspoonful of Humphreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel, 
taken every one or two hours, will be effectual. 


DISEASES OF WOMEN. 


MENSTRUATION. 

The sufferings attendant upon the various forms of 
disease to which women are particularly liable, comprise a 
large share of the evils to which they are subject. Much 
of the health and happiness of the sex depends upon the 
proper performance of the various functions incident to 
their peculiar systems. No considerable derangement in 
these functions can exist for any length of time, without 
drawing the entire system into sympathetic suffering. 
While this class of disease is so important, and exercise 
so grave an influence over the health and happiness of the 
female, yet their nature is such as to necessarily exclude 
them, to a great extent, from observation, and the victim 
often prefers to suffer the pain, distress and inconvenience 
of them, than to disclose them to her medical attendant. 
It is then especially important that ladies, and especially 
mothers, should make themselves acquainted with the sub¬ 
ject, and as far as possible to be able to correct these dis¬ 
turbances in their earlier stages, and before they have 
become complicated or inveterate from lapse of time. 

The first menses usually make their appearance in this 
climate at about the fifteenth year; in warm climates earlier, 
and in colder later. It is also subject to variations, de¬ 
pending upon the general health, vigor, and development 
of the person. Eor a .year or two it may be scanty, and no^ 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-DISEASES OP WOMEN. 419 

anfrequently subject to some irregularities, which need 
not excite apprehension, unless they are very grave or im¬ 
portant. In healthy women it should appear every twenty- 
eight days, and flow four or five days, varying again accord¬ 
ing to the health and vigor of the person. About the 
forty-fifth year of life it generally ceases altogether, though 
in some cases it may commence with irregularities some 
years earlier; and in others the function may continue 
regularly until the fiftieth year, or even later. Its cessation 
is marked by irregularities and various disturbances of the 
system, extending for months, or even years. This cessation 
of the monthly-flows, and the disturbances of the period, 
are generally termed the “change of life” or the critical 
period. 

Amenorrhea. —(Tardy menses—Delaying menses). When 
the menses, in young girls, do not come on at the usual 
time, it is not always proper to hasten to administer medi¬ 
cine, with a view of forcing their appearance. It is a better 
rule, so long as the general health remains good, to do 
nothing to promote this secretion, beyond attention to the 
proper clothing, exercise, and diet of the patient. The 
clothing should be warm and changed to suit the tem¬ 
perature and season; and a wholesome, generous diet should 
be adopted, avoiding all spices, coffee, and high-seasoned 
food. Care should be likewise exercised that the child be 
not overtaxed by study, too long or too severe lessons, or 
sitting too long at the piano; while, from want of appetite, 
or unsuitable or too meagre diet, the system is insufficiently 
nourished during this period. These measures will gener¬ 
ally be sufficient. Should they however fail, or should there 
be some symptoms of its approach, such as flushes of heat, 
frequent giddiness of the head, heaviness in the abdomen 
and about the loins; or if she is dull, stupid, melancholy or 
sad; or if she is bloated, sluggish; or even if very slender 
and feeble, the case should demand attention, and th^ 


420 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


patient should receive proper care in order to prevent after 
diseases, irregularity and suffering. 

Treatment. —The Number Eleven, six pellets night 
and morning, will be found sufficient, and may be continued 
regularly until the menses are established. Fresh air, 
moderate exercise, and simple, generous diet, are im¬ 
portant. A sponge bath night and morning, avoiding 
exposure to night air and cold damp feet, are also import¬ 
ant auxiliaries. 

Chlorosis. — (Green-Sickness ).—In some cases the menses 
fail to appear at the proper age, or appear imperfectly, very 
scanty in quantity, wanting in proper color, and irregularly 
as to time, or not at all, and, additionally, there are more or 
less of the following symptoms: Weariness, want of strength 
or vigor, languor, debility, the patient becomes emaciated, 
face pale, earthy, lips blanched, bloodless, or sometimes 
flushes of heat, depraved appetite, longing for sharp, acid, 
or cheering things, or for slate, chalk, or clayw The bowels 
are irregular, confined, or relaxed; abdomen often dis¬ 
tended, with borborigmi or flatulence, especially after 
eating, or along in the latter part of the day; limbs fre¬ 
quently are swelled and cold; headache, short breath, and 
palpitation of the heart on slight exercise, and not unfre- 
quently, short, dry cough. These symptoms in young girls 
are always of the utmost importance, and demand care and 
attention for their removal. Yet you should not rush to 
extreme means. A little time, patience and care, with the 
use of the proper medicines, will generally bring all around 
right, and give the patient a good, healthy constitution. 

Treatment. --The Number Eleven, six pellets in 
water, three times per day, will almost always be found 
sufficient; and especially if coupled with this, due care be 
exercised with regard to the diet and regimen of the pa¬ 
tient. All that has been said under the previous section 
in regard to Tardy Menstruation obtains here. Good air. 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DISEASES OF WOMEN. 


421 


generous diet, warm clothing, daily frictions of the body 
and bathing, are all means to establish and build up the 
general health, and most important and efficient auxiliaries 
in the work of restoration; and generally succeed in a few 
months in restoring the patient, and bringing her over this 
often-times critical period. Other medicines may be used 
as intercurrent remedies in the treatment, if the symptoms 
so require: as, the No. Tell for flatulence, feeble digestion 
and poor appetite; No. Seven for cough or hoarseness; No. 
One or No. Thirty-Five for flushes of heat or headache. 
These remedies may be given, one or two doses of six 
pellets per day, while the No. Eleven is given regularly 
night or morning. 

Scanty, Insufficient Menses. —In some cases, after men¬ 
struation is established, the discharge does not appear at 
the proper time, there being five or six or more weeks be¬ 
tween the intervals; or, it may continue only for a day or 
two, being pale or unusual in color, or stopping, and then 
coming on again for a few hours; or other features of irre¬ 
gularity, denoting an unhealthy or feeble menstrual flow. 
All such cases indicate either general debility, feebleness 
of the entire system, the presence of some serious disease 
or derangement of the uterine system, and demand atten¬ 
tion. We should seek to build up the general health, by 
nourishing food, stimulants in rare cases, good air and 
healthful exercise, keeping the feet dry and warm, and the 
lower extremities well protected, and the mind cheerful and 
happy. 

Beside these hygienic observances, the use of the 
No. Eleven, six pellets, night and morning, or even six 
pellets before each meal and on going to rest at night, will 
in general restore the system to its natural and healthy 
function. 

Suppressed Menses. —Sometimes, in regularly menstruat¬ 
ing women, the discharge becomes suppressed, and fails to 


422 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


appear at the proper time. This is most commonly thti 
result of cold, and especially of damp cold , and is a cause 
to which women should be constantly on their guard. Cold 
feet, getting the feet wet, insufficient covering for the feet, 
legs and lower abdomen, or a thorough chilling of the 
whole body about the time it should appear, or even during 
the flow, are sufficient to arrest the discharge, and result in 
very mischievous consequences. Sudden and powerful 
emotions of the mind, or grief and despondency, may also 
arrest it, and at times, these powerful influences applied 
during the intervals between the periods, may be sufficient 
to prevent its appearance. The use of acids, vinegar, picls> 
les, or harsh, indigestible things, may have a similar effect. 
When these obstructing causes are applied during the flow, 
or just at the time of its being established, the consequences 
are much more severe and violent than when they are 
applied during the interval. 

But when the obstructing causes are applied during the 
interval, a train of symptoms arise which are quite as 
serious, if not as sudden and violent. The patient becomes 
pale, languid, debilitated; her appetite fails, and she looks 
sickly and dejected; there is loss of energy and ambition; 
the feet and ankles often swell; she becomes nervous, palpi¬ 
tation of the heart, indigestion, flatulence, and shortness of 
breath appear, and very generally leucorrhcea comes on. 
In feeble persons predisposed to consumption or pulmon¬ 
ary disease, suppression is peculiarly prejudicial and always 
demands serious attention. The result is that: The flow 
may either cease suddenly, or it may not come on at all at 
the next period, or it may come on attended with s«ant} T , 
irregular discharge, or with severe pain and distress. In 
the worst cases we have frightful attack of spasmodic pains 
in the bowels and stomach, often attended with retching, 
vomiting, headache, flushed face, delirium, convulsions, 
hysteria, palpitation of the heart, or difficult breathing, etc, 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DISEASES OF WOMEN. 423 


Treatment. —Dissolve at once twelve pellets of No. 
Eleven, in six dessert spoonfuls of water, and of this give 
one spoonful every hour, giving the patient also a hot foot¬ 
bath, and put her quietly and comfortably to bed if the 
case is sufficiently serious to justify it. This will generally 
suffice; if it does not, another dose may be prepared in 
the same manner, and taken at intervals of two or three 
hours, until the result is accomplished. 

If the flow has been fully established, it may not be re¬ 
quisite to do anything in the interval. But if the result 
has been imperfectly accomplished, the No. Eleven should 
be given, six pellets every two or three nights during the 
interval, and at the time it should again appear, care 
should be taken that there be no exposure or danger of a 
chill to prevent its appearance. 

When the proper time returns, and the menses do not 
appear, take six pellets of No. Eleven every night on going 
to bed, and morning on rising, and bathe the feet in warm 
water ten or fifteen minutes, two or three nights in suc¬ 
cession, if necessary. A single dose or two will, however, 
usually be found successful. 

Dysmenorrhea. —(Painful Menstruation ).—Many wom¬ 
en suffer an untold amount of pain at every return of the 
menstrual period; not only bearing down, but cuttings, 
gripings, colic, cramps, and, in some cases, even con¬ 
vulsions attend every access of menstruation. Often these 
sufferings are so excruciating as to embitter the life of the 
patient, and cause her to dread even the thought of a men¬ 
strual return; and the prostrating effects of one period are 
hardly recovered from, before another comes on. These suf¬ 
ferings are liable to occur during every period of life, from 
the commencement to the close of menstruation, and certain 
persons or constitutions are peculiarly predisposed to them. 
Exposure to cold and want of proper care during the first 
years of menstruation, are the common sources of this 


m 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


suffering. The pain often begins some hours, or even days 
before the flow commences; and at other times the dis¬ 
charge commences and continues several hours, then 
diminishes or ceases entirely, with great suffering. The 
pains may continue an indefinite period, ceasing or be¬ 
coming less when the flow has been established under 
proper treatment; or, they may continue during the entire 
period, without shortening the period, or diminishing the 
quantity. The pains may be of an intermitting, expulsive 
character, or a steady, aching pain in the loins, hips, and 
back, like those which usually precede menstruation. In 
some cases membranous shreds are expelled, and in others 
the flow is natural. Not unfrequently the breasts are 
swelled, sensitive, or even quite painful. 

Such cases are sometimes found in connection with 
scanty, retarded, or irregular periods; and again, with re¬ 
gular or too abundant discharge, the feature being exces¬ 
sively violent pain, pressure, bearing down, and even cramps 
and convulsions at every access of the monthly period. 

Treatment. —During the interval between the periods, 
give every night six pellets of the No. Eleven. When 
the pain comes on , give six pellets of the No. Thirty-one, 
every hour, until relief is obtained, or several hours 
have passed. If not fully relieved by this, give the No. 
Eleven, in alternation with the No. Thirty-one, and at 
the same intervals. In some cases where there is great 
bearing down, or when the discharge is quite profuse, 
the No. Thirty-five will be found very efficient, given 
in the same manner, either alone or in alternation with 
No. Thirty-one. This course will very generally relieve 
the most inveterate cases. 

For headache during the menses, take the No. Eleven, 
every two hours six pellets, until relieved. In some cases 
the No. Thirty-two, taken in the same manner, acts like 
a charm. 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DISEASES OF WOMEN. 425 


Metorrhagia. —(Too profuse, or too frequent menses ).— 
Often, especially in women subject to “the whites,” and 
dependent also upon a similar relaxed condition in the 
system, the menses are too profuse, returniug again after a 
cessation of only ten, fourteen, or sixteen days, and flowing 
from five to ten days. Thus the discharge may not only be 
too profuse, but also too soon and too frequent, or it may 
only appear too soon, without being for the time excessive in 
quantity. Sometimes the secretion is scanty for some days, 
and then comes on like a flood, causing great prostration, 
faintness and debility, from which the patient has scarcely 
time to recover, before a new attack comes on. It may be 
attended with only slight pain or distress beyond the sen¬ 
sation of debility, consequent upon the great drain upon 
the system. But in other cases the pain, distress, or dragg¬ 
ing down pains are very severe and exhausting. Some¬ 
times, indeed, the discharge is so profuse as to merit the 
designation of real hemorrhage, or flooding, and, of course, 
induces a condition of great debility and prostration. 
"Women subject to this difficulty, should entirely abstain 
from coffee, wine, or other stimulants, and also from all 
heating drinks, spices, or condiments. These excitements 
exert a direct influence in keeping up the irritation, and in 
promoting this unhealthy flow. 

Treatment. —During the interval between the periods, 
the No. Twelve, six pellets morning and night, 
should be taken, regulating the diet as above directed. 
After the flow has continued two or three days, and if 
desirable to arrest its further excess, commence the 
use of the No. Ten and No. Twelve in alternation, 
giving six pellets at a time, at intervals of three 
hours. If the discharge is very profuse from the first, 
the above two remedies may be commenced earlier, and 
may be given every four hours in alternation. When 
ike discharge lingers along for several days 8 six pellets 


m 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOft. 


of No. Teilj given at night, will generally suffice to 
arrest it. 

In case there be at any time an excessive flow, amounting 
to a dangerous hemorrhage, from whatever cause, ten or 
twelve pellets of Number Twelve should be dissolved 
in six spoonsful of water, and one spoonful should be taken 
every hour, until the dangerous symptoms are warded off, 
when the medicine may be administered at longer inter¬ 
vals. It will be obvious that the patient must remain per¬ 
fectly quiet, and abstain from warm drinks, or any excite¬ 
ment at such times. 

Menopause.— (The grand Climacteric—Cessation of the Men¬ 
ses ).—This period, which is very frequently termed the 
Change of Life, occurs most commonly at or about the 
forty-fifth year. In some cases where menstruation has 
commenced early, and the person has lived luxuriously, it 
may terminate as early as thirty-seven, forty, or forty- 
second year; and, in other cases, with strong, vigorous 
ladies, the menses often continue to the forty-eighth or 
fiftieth year, or even to a more advanced period of life. 

Its approach is usually manifested by some irregularities 
in the monthly flow. It may come on too soon, or be de¬ 
layed one, two, or more weeks; and the discharge may 
manifest some change, being in some cases light or pale, 
being largely mixed with mucus; and in others being very 
profuse, not unfrequently amounting to profuse and alarm¬ 
ing hemorrhages. Sometimes the flow comes on suddenly, 
and again ceases without warning, and unattended by bad 
symptoms. In some cases the change comes on so gradual 
and free from constitutional disturbance, that before the 
subject is fully aware of it, she has ceased to menstruate, 
and has safely glided over this troublesome passage into, 
the serene ocean of after-life, exempt from many sufferings 
to which she had previously been exposed. 

More frequently, howevei:, as women approach this 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DISEASES OF WOMEN. 42V 

period, they have turns of vertigo, headache, flushes of heat, 
occasional palpitation of the heart, more or less nervousness 
and some sense of debility; sometimes frequent passage of 
pale urine in large quantities, or of high-colored, scanty 
urine; pain in the lower part of the abdomen, back and 
hips, or extending down the thighs; heat in the lower part 
of the stomach and back; piles may be troublesome and 
bleed freely; swelling of the lower limbs or abdomen, which 
subsides without the usual symptom of flatulence; and pru- 
ritis or violent itching of the organs is not uncommon. This 
range of symptoms may appear in whole or only in part, or 
be variously modified in particular cases. 

Treatment. —So long as the health is good, and the 
monthly flow is gradually diminishing from month to 
month, medicine is not required, but in all cases a proper 
diet and regimen is important. The diet should be simple, 
avoiding all stimulants, and all highly-seasoned stimulating 
meats, and using chiefly vegetable and farinaceous articles 
of food; frequent exercise in the open air in suitable 
weather, bathing, and the proper culture of the skin should 
not be neglected. The dress should be so regulated as to 
suitably protect the person, and prevent unnecessary ex¬ 
posure to the necessities of climate; and sleeping, also, in 
heated rooms, and on soft, heating beds, should be avoided. 
The No. Thirty-two, six pellets morning and night, 
will be generally efficient in arresting nearly all the 
disturbances arising during this period. Should there 
occur at any time such a discharge as to be serious or 
threaten a hemorrhage, rest, quiet, and the use of the 
No. Twelve, in alternation with No. Thirty-two, six 
pellets every hour, will promptly avert any danger. No 
fear r.eed be entertained from the long-continued use of 
the No. Thirty-two during this period, as it may be used 
for months or years without prejudice. 


±28 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


LEUCORRHCEA.—( Whites). 

Few affections of women are more common than this, 
and, perhaps, none more annoying. It consists of a dis¬ 
charge from the genital organs, mostly whitish, but not 
unfrequently discolored, and of varying nature and consis¬ 
tency. It most frequently occurs between the ages ot 
puberty and the cessation of the menses, yet it it not un¬ 
common in little girls or even young children, and occa¬ 
sionally met with in quite oid women. Some persons and 
families are much more subject to it than others; those sub¬ 
ject to catarrhs, and of relaxed habit of body, being most 
liable. The more common exciting causes are difficult 01 
tedious labors; the immoderate use of the organs; late 
hours; abuse of tea, coffee and spices; luxurious living, and 
sometimes the neglect of proper bathing. When it appears 
in children, the cause is generally seat-worms, neglect of 
proper bathing, or some irritating matter or substance 
applied to the parts. This discharge is also most profuse 
just before and after the menstrual period, and during 
pregnancy. It may be trifling or quite profuse, and its 
character may vary as much as its quantity. At the com¬ 
mencement it may be only a slight increase of the natural, 
healthy, transparent mucus, but it gradually becomes more 
dense, thick and gelatinous; or it may become thin, milky, 
or acrid, at times rendering the parts sore or excoriated; in 
many cases it is yellowish and purulent; or again it may be 
greenish or even a brownish hue. The discharge often is 
not constant, but irregular, or by emissions. At first, and 
while the discharge is trifling, the system seems to feel the 
loss but slightly; but after a time the results begin to man¬ 
ifest themselves by constant pain in the back and loins; 
aching in the hips; bearing down or sense of weight low in 
the abdomen; pale face; coldness of the extremities; des¬ 
pondency or low spirits; loss of appetite; rising of wind or 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DISEASES OF WOMEN. 429 

food; nervous symptoms, neuralgia, and similar consensual 
manifestations. Leucorrhea should always demand attem 
tion. On the first intimation of its approach, the subject 
should at once avoid the exciting causes, and apply the 
proper remedies, and thus arrest at the commencement 
what might otherwise become an intolerable burden, or 
the forerunner of some serious uterine affection. Not un- 
frequently it is the symptom of some disease of the uterus 
which demands prompt and efficient aid. 

Treatment. —Persons subject to this condition should 
carefully protect the feet and lower abdomen from sudden 
changes of temperature and colds, by wearing firm, sub- v 
stantial covering for the feet, and underclothing; avoid 
standing on the cold, wet ground; take moderate exercise 
in the open air; avoid over-heated rooms, coffee, exciting 
drinks or highly-spiced food, and should take of the No. 
Twelve, six pellets night and morning. If the bowels are 
inclined to constipation, the No. Ten, six pellets, may be 
taken at night, and the No. Twelve morning and at noon. 

When leucorrhea exists in connection with too scanty, 
infrequent or irregular menses, the No. Eleven deserves 
a preference, and may be taken six pellets, three times 
per day. 

When it occurs after child-birth, No. Twelve is the 
remedy, six pellets morning and night for a week. If this 
does not control it give No. Eleven in same manner. If 
it depends on a scrofulous taint of system, the No. 
Twenty-two will be useful. Injections of Humphreys’ 
Marvel WitciI Hazel and water, in the proportion of 
one part of the Marvel Witch Hazel and two parts of 
water, administered morning and night, are of the utmost 
possible value in arresting such discharges, stimulating 
contractions, and giving tone and vigor to the organs. 

When it exists in little girls or young children, a careful 


480 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


examination should be made for small pin worms which 
may sometimes be found lodged within the parts, and 
which should be removed by frequent bathings; and 
the child treated for worms, by giving the No. Two 
each morning and the No. Twelve at night, three 
pellets at a time. 

PROLAPSUS UTERI .—{Falling of the Womb). 

This is also a very common complaint among women, 
affecting, in a greater or lesser extent, quite a proportion oi 
the sex. Sometimes it is only a passing and comparatively 
trivial affection, coming on from some severe fatigue or 
over-exertion, and soon passing off from rest and a recum¬ 
bent posture; while at others it is a constant and chronic 
affection, forbidding any considerable effort, and sometimes 
confining the patient to her room. The immediate causes 
of the prolapsus are various, among which the principal 
are: Getting up too soon after confinement; results of over- 
lifting or over-straining, or of falls; very severe coughs or 
vomitings; tight lacing, and a more or less relaxed habit of 
body; and, added to this, a more or less engorged or con¬ 
gested condition of the uterus itself. It is usually attended 
with a feeling of weight and heaviness low down in the ab¬ 
domen ; lameness or pain in the back and loins, dragging 
in the groins; a benumbing sensation extending down the 
limbs; a sensation as if everything would be pressed out 
while standing on the feet; a sensation also of emptiness, 
faintness, or “goneness” at the pit of the stomach; and 
often some difficulty in passing water or when at stool. In 
some severe cases there is difficulty in rising to the feet, 
and the patient must lean forward and support herself by 
placing her hands upon her thighs. All these sufferings 
are aggravated by standing or walking, and disappear or 
are relieved by lying down. There is also in many cases, i 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DISEASES OF WOMEN. 431 


constant discharge of mucus from the parts, often unhealthy 
and abundant, and the monthly period is generally too 
profuse, all of which contribute to increase the nervous 
debility, and exhaust the strength of the patient. 

Treatment. —In many instances, and in all the less 
aggravated cases, the use of Homeopathic Medicines in the 
form of Humphreys’ Remedies will be sufficient to remove 
the difficulty, if the patient will follow the treatment per¬ 
sistently, and avoid the exciting causes of the disease. 
But there may be cases so situated that mechanical aid, 
in the form of some of the various “pessaries” or “ sup¬ 
porters ”, is indispensable. But I think we should never 
resort, to these until we have exhausted other means; as 
once introduced, they may and most likely will, become 
a life-long companion. When the symptoms are present, 
indicating a prolapsed condition, or those above described, 
the No. Thirty-five and No. Ten are the most efficient 
remedies and should be administered, six pellets of No. 
Thirty-five each morning, and the same of No. Ten at 
night in all the milder cases. When the symptoms are 
more severe and decided, the pellets may be dissolved in 
water and administered as often as once in four hours, 
being at the same time careful to give the patient all the 
rest and quiet possible. When the displacement is severe 
and decided, and especially when it is the result of a recent 
strain, overlifting or accident, the patient should lie down 
upon the back, with the limbs drawn up, and endeavor to 
replace the organ, and to maintain the position until the 
organ has, in a degree, resumed its position, and the pains 
and dragging sensation has disappeared. 

When prolapsus occurs in connection with chronic leu- 
corrhea, the No. Ten and No. Twelve should be ad¬ 
ministered, giving each morning and afternoon, six pellets 
of No. Twelve, and at each noon and at night the 
same of No. Ten until this condition is radically removed, 


i32 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


HYSTERIA. 

Ladies between the ages of fifteen and thirty and more 
ospecially the unmarried, are subject to attacks of hysteria* 
which are in general connected with some anomalies in the 
menstruation, and mostly occur in connection with that 
period. The form and succession of symptoms are almost 
innumerable, since there is scarcely a form of disease that 
hysteria has not been known to simulate. The more fre¬ 
quent symptoms, however, are those of anxiety, depression, 
weeping; difficult or oppressed breathing; palpitation or 
nausea; sensation as if there was a ball in the throat, which 
proceeds from a pain in the left side; sometimes there is 
twisting or turning of the body, rigid, stiff limbs and 
clenching of the teeth. Then there are fits of laughing, 
crying, screaming, incoherent talking or frothing at the 
mouth, or hiccough. Sometimes an attack commences with 
violent spasmodic pain in the back, which may extend tc 
the chest or stomach, with cold perspiration, pale, earthy 
face and w r eak, thread-like pulse. An attack lasts from a 
few minutes to several hours, and passes off with eructations, 
sighing, sobbing, and a sense of soreness in the wdiole body. 
It is quite common in some families and individuals, and it 
may be excited by sudden emotions. The predisposition 
to it is increased by an inactive life, free use of stimulants* 
or depressing mental condition. 

Treatment. —See pages 268—269. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE LABIA. 

An inflammation of the external organs of women 
occasionally occurs, during which one of the labia becomes 
swelled, hard, red and painful and sensitive. In soma 
cases a swelling and suppuration and discharge similar 
to that of a boil occurs, all of which is very painful and 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DISEASES OF WOMEN. 


433 


tedious. In some persons there are frequent repetitions 
of the same phenomenon. It may be occasioned by 
the rupture of the hymen, or from injury in the newly 
married, or come on as a consequence of tedious labors, or 
in other cases from some morbid condition of the system 
developing itself in this direction 

Treatment. —When it is the result of violence or injury 
to the parts, Humphreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel, diluted one- 
half with water, and applied to the part by a cloth saturated 
wilh the lotion, will give very prompt and decided relief; 
and the No. One, six pellets every two or three hours, may 
also be taken upon the tongue, and continued until the 
heat, swelling and pain has subsided. In cases where it 
assumes the nature of a boil, and suppuration occurs, or is 
inevitable, the No. Twenty-two may be given, six pellets 
every four or six hours. An occasional dose will prevent 
a return. 


PREGNANCY. 

This period may be considered as perhaps the most im¬ 
portant era in the life of woman. She is now no longer 
acting for herself alone, but becomes invested with a new 
and serious responsibility; as, upon her well or ill being 
during this period, may depend the future health and. hap¬ 
piness of another, to whom she stands at once in the most 
endearing and most responsible relation. Experience, and 
the ample records of the most careful observers have clearly 
shown that the physical, mental, and even moral constitu¬ 
tion of the future being is greatly modified, and in some 
instances formed, by the condition of the mother during 
this interesting period. Keeping this in view, we shall en¬ 
deavor to point out for mothers that general course of con¬ 
duct which will be most likely to secure for themselves 
ease and safety during the approaching trial; and for the 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOK. 


lU 

offspring, that physical and mental condition winch will 
best fit them for the duties of life. Should these slight re¬ 
strictions involve some self-denials or restraints, they may 
be assured that they will be more than repaid in their own 
welfare in the near future, and in the consciousness of 
having so truly contributed to the health and happiness of 
another. 

The most common causes of weak and sickly offspring 
are: Ill health or constitutional taint of one or both parents; 
very early or very late marriages; too great inequality 
between the ages of the parents; errors in dress, diet, and 
general habits of life; and, finally, powerful mental emotions. 

Fortunately, under the benign and yet potent influence 
of our system of treatment, not only long standing diseases, 
but also hereditary taints, may be entirely overcome and 
eradicated, so that we have less to fear than formerly in re¬ 
gard to their transmission to offspring. And it maj r as well 
be remarked here, that the intermarriage of relations or 
members of the same family, tends to aggravate and perpe¬ 
tuate any particular fault or vice of either parent, even 
though in some cases it may disappear in one generation, 
only to reappear in greater violence or strength in a 
succeeding one; while, by judicious intermarriage with per¬ 
sons of opposite temperaments, the fault or vice is con¬ 
stantly found to diminish. 

It is not advisable for women in this country to enter 
the marriage relation before the twenty-first or twenty- 
second year, though it is undeniable that many have be¬ 
come strong, healthy mothers, lived to old age, and have 
reared large families of healthy children, who have married 
at a much earlier age; yet prior to this period, the organism 
is rarely fully developed and confirmed, and those who 
marry at sixteen or eighteen years of age, incur some 
hazard of severe after-suffering to themselves, and of giving 
birth to weak and delicate children- Not unfreqaently the 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—-DISEASES OF WOMEN. 43 j 

children of very early marriages perish in infancy, or after 
contending with the various diseases of infancy in continual 
delicacy, sink into a premature grave. Women who marry 
late in life incur considerable personal risk, and their off¬ 
spring are rarely healthy. The children of old men, though 
by a young wife, are often extremely delicate and very 
susceptible to illness, and not unfrequently precede their 
father to the grave, or linger but to drag out a miserable 
and wearisome existence. 

Pregnancy should not be considered a state of disease, 
but as a natural function, and one which nature has 
taken great care to have as perfect in all its appointments, 
and as free from suffering as possible. When pregnancy 
runs its equable and uniform course, the expectant mother 
enjoys an almost complete exemption from prevailing epi¬ 
demic, or even infectious diseases; and we likewise find 
that during its course chronic diseases are frequently sus¬ 
pended or modified. With the exception of some slight 
morning sickness, or other trilling uneasiness, a well con¬ 
stituted organism should enjoy as good health during this 
period as at any other. Thousands pass through it, giving 
birth to healthy and vigorous children without even the 
most trifling inconvenience or suffering. Though nature 
has taken kind care to render this season as far as possible 
exempt from disease on the part of the mother, and to 
provide for the health and welfare of the future being, yet 
in many instances her kind intentions are frustrated by 
the direct infraction of her laws. The expectant mother 
slioqld therefore bear in mind the duty of leading, as far 
as possible, a regular and systematic course of life, since 
its violation may fall with fearful severity upon the helpless 
infant. 

Air and Exercise. —Preservation and enjoyment of the 
highest health are dependent upon nothing more than the 
two points mentioned above, yet, perhaps, in nothing are 


436 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


there more frequent errors. Neither air nor exercise ia 
individually sufficient. Those who, from habit or fashion, 
merely take the air in their carriages, and shun the slightest 
physical exercise, either from habit or from acquired in¬ 
dolence, can scarcely expect to derive the benefit which 
nature has annexed to the observation of her laws, in a 
course of pregnancy, free from suffering, and the production 
of fully developed and healthy offspring. 

During this period, therefore, passive or carriage exer¬ 
cise is not sufficient, on the contrary, continual passive 
evercise in a carriage has been found particularly injurious 
during and towards the end of the second period of pre¬ 
gnancy, and is frequently the cause of premature or ab¬ 
normal births. Exercise on horseback, even without taking 
into consideration the risk of fright or accident to the 
rider, and the fearful consequences that may therefrom 
result, is still more objectionable for many reasons. Walk¬ 
ing, and that frequently in the open air, only meets every 
indication, as it not only brings the whole of the organic 
muscles into play, and imparts tone and strength to them 
by their exercise, but likewise imparts the increased vigor 
and energy of the mother to her offspring. 

Another class, that of thrifty housewives, take a great 
deal of exercise, but without corresponding benefit, as it is 
mostly within doors; and in many cases these women, 
either from activity of temperament or the seeming neces¬ 
sities of their position, frequently over-fatigue themselves, 
rise early, toil constantly, retire late and frequently slumber 
unrefreshingly, and in this manner undermine their organic 
powers, to their own permanent loss and injury, and that 
of their offspring. 

There are still others who not unfrequently injure their 
health, or bring on a miscarriage through excessive levity 
and thoughtlessness, by unrestrained indulgence in active 
exercise, running, romping, riding on horseback, dancing 


disease and treatment.— diseases of women. 


437 


etc. Such should remember that a miscarriage once or 
twice induced is likely to return again upon the slightest 
provocation, and that, when several have taken place, the 
greatest care and skill is required, even if it be possible 
to enable her to attain her full time; and that frequent 
casualties of this nature not unfrequently undermine the 
constitution, or terminate in that serious and painful 
disease, uterine cancer. 

The best exercise, therefore, for a person during this 
period, is walking every day when the weather permits, in 
the open air. In order to prove beneficial and not to inter¬ 
fere with digestion, exercise should be taken two or three 
hours after a moderate meal, about midday, or in the after¬ 
noon, except during hot weather, when the morning or the 
evening may be preferred, taking care to avoid the night 
damps by not remaining out too late. 

Clothing. —The dress of the expectant women should of 
course be suited to the season, and in passing from a warm 
to a cold atmosphere, the throat and neck should be well 
protected, to avoid the risk of taking cold. But a point of 
far greater importance is the adaptation of clothing to her 
form, so as to preclude all unnecessary pressure upon any 
part of the frame calculated to interfere with the functions 
of those important organs which are destined for the birth 
and nourishment of the infant; tight lacing, therefore, at 
all times most objectionable, is peculiarly so at this period, 
inasmuch as it cramps the natural action of the body, and 
bearing directly upon the abdominal muscles, the blood¬ 
vessels, the lymphatics, and the whole intestinal economy, 
produces narrowness of the chest, disturbed circulation, 
and induration or other derangements of the liver; and 
exercises a most baneful influence upon the breasts and 
uterus. "We should bear in mind that pressure upon these 
organs during development takes place in direct contra¬ 
vention of the operations of nature. Ladies in their efforts 


438 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


bo preserve the elegance of their shape during pregnancy, 
are little aware that the constricting force thus exercised 
upon the abdominal muscles, destroys their elasticity, pre¬ 
vents a proper retraction after parturition, and thus proven 
one of the most common causes of permanent abdominal 
deformity. Besides, to the culpable vanity of their mothers 
in this and other respects, many, it is probable, owe their 
club-feet and other malformations; and m addition to these 
evils, this practice not unfrequently deranges the position 
of the foetus, a displacement, which, in addition to the con¬ 
sequent want of energy in the muscles of the parts con¬ 
cerned, often results in protracted and dangerous labors. 
Besides, this tight lacing is liable to produce a premature 
labor. To tight lacing also may be attributed the difficulty 
which many women experience in suckling their children, 
from the incipient process required for the subsequent 
secretion of milk having been interfered with by the unna¬ 
tural pressure upon the beautifully constructed mechanism 
of the breasts. From this, also, sometimes arises cancers 
and other affections of the breast, and also the retraction 
and diminution of the nipple from which the act of suckling 
is rendered difficult, and in some cases impossible. Young 
girls of seventeen or eighteen are frequently found with 
pendulous breasts, owing to an artificial support having 
usurped the office of muscles intended by nature for that 
purpose, thus throwing them out of employment. Garters 
too tightly bound are generally injurious, more particularly 
to pregnant females, as the pressure thus exercised upon 
the blood vessels tends to the development of varicose veins 
in the inferior extremities, (to which the system is already 
sufficiently predisposed), which thus, in many instances, 
become painful and troublesome. 

Diet. —The greatest simplicity should be observed in 
regard to food. The quantity should be such as to afford 
a generous nutrition for the system, while an excess is pre- 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-DISEASES OF WOMEN. 


435 


judicial, causing dyspepsia and general uneasiness, and 
from its mechanical effects acting injuriously upon the 
foetus, which also shares in any derangements of the mother. 

The quality of her food is important; everything possess¬ 
ing a medicinal property should be avoided, and only that 
aelected which is simply nutritive. Coffee and green tea 
should be wholly abandoned, and black tea in moderation 
should be used if any. Wines, liquors, beer, or other 
stimulating beverages are injurious. Where women have 
been long accustomed to them, a little good wine may per¬ 
haps be taken daily, but the better rule is to avoid stim¬ 
ulants of every kind altogether. 

Mental Employment and General Habits. —While the 
body should be maintained in a condition of health, the 
mind also should be kept in a state of serenity. An easy 
cheerfulness of temper, and freedom from oppressive care 
and anxiety, are essential to the well-being of the unborn 
infant. It is well settled, from repeated observation, that 
the predominant feeling or tone of mind of the mother has 
often cast its shade over the future mental organization of 
the child; and this fact illustrates the importance of keeping 
the mind properly occupied during this period, and that its 
meditations should be cheerful and free from depressing 
influences and gloomy forebodings on the one hand, and 
the levity, frivolity, and excitements of fashionable dissi¬ 
pation on the other. Nothing can well be more injurious 
to the future physical and mental well-being of the child, 
than a round of giddy dissipation, late hours, and fashion¬ 
able excitement, in connection with physical indolence and 
•inactivity. 

Influence of External Objects upon the Unborn Infant. 
“The effect of any unpleasant or unsightly object upon the 
imagination of the mother, and the transmission of that effect 
to the offspring, as manifested in various mental or physical 
peculiarities after birth, is a theory as old as tradition. 


440 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


"Without entering into the various arguments both for and 
against it, we simply advise expectant women to keep as 
much as possible out of the way of such objects, and to 
preserve body and mind in a state of health, which will 
lessen the fear of being affected by such occurrences; and 
endeavor to direct the attention as much as possible to 
pleasing subjects, as it must be evident that •brooding over 
unpleasant impressions can scarcely fail of being both phy¬ 
sically and mentally injurious.” 

Mental Emotions, Despondency. —In some cases, and 
especially with delicate, sensitive, ladies, and more com¬ 
monly with first children, there is great mental despon¬ 
dency, dread of the future, and fear of approaching death. 
Some women, who in general have a fine flow of spirits, are 
particularly depressed and gloomy during this period, and 
with others there is this depression during the period of 
nursing. When it occurs early during gestation, it usually 
passes off before delivery, and is in no case to be considered 
as an unfavorable indication, and is in general without in¬ 
jury to the physical health. 

Treatment. — Our method of treatment will do much to 
remove or mitigate it. When this condition is attended 
with some febrile movement, fullness of the head, or 
heat of the hands, the No. One, six pellets taken dry on 
the tongue morning, and at night, will be sufficient to 
remove it. When it is attended with morning sickness, 
the No. Ten may be taken at night, and the No. 
Twenty-nine, six pellets in the morning, will afford 
relief to both affections. When there is excessive dejection 
and great lassitude, the No. Thirty-five may be given, 
six pellets at a time, three times per day. These remedies 
will usually be found quite adequate for the removal of any 
difficulties of this nature. 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-DISEASES OF WOMWK. 441 


DISORDERS INCIDENT TO PREGNANCY. 

Menstruation. —Usually, with the commencement of pre¬ 
gnancy, menstruation ceases. In some cases, however, it 
may continue in some degree during the period of gestation, 
especially the first two or three months. It should not be 
considered as a disease, strictly speaking, yet it is one of 
those abnormal conditions which require attention, and 
should be remedied at the earliest moment. 

Treatment. —Six pellets of the No. Ten, taken at 
night, and the same quantity of No. Thirty-five each 
morning, will, in general, arrest the discharge. Should 
the discharge be attended with cramps, pain, or bearing 
down, the No. Thirty-One should be taken in preference, 
six pellets every two, three or four hours, according 
to the urgency of the case, until relieved. Should the 
discharge again appear the subsequent month, the same 
treatment should be pursued, and so continue so long as is 
required. 

Morning Sickness. —Nausea, vomiting, heartburn, con¬ 
stituting what is usually termed morning sickness, is one 
of the frequent and annoying accompaniments of pregnancy. 
In some cases these symptoms appear immediately, or soon 
after conception, but in most cases at about the sixth week. 
The most decided symptoms occur in the morning soon 
after rising, though in many cases they continue all through 
the day and are quite marked in the afternoon. The usual 
symptoms are nausea, qualmishness, then vomiting; some¬ 
times only a single retching; at others severe and oft-re¬ 
peated vomitings, with constant loss of appetite, and heart¬ 
burn. In general these symptoms disappear soon after 
quickening, about the fourth month, but in others they 
continue to annoy during the entire period. In some cases 
these symptoms form but a trifling annoyance, scarcely 
noticeable; at others they form a most distressing and pain- 


442 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


ful attendant of this interesting period. Sometimes the 
suffering has been so terrible, and the remedies of old 
school medicine so fruitless, that premature delivery has 
been resorted to. Our treatment, fortunately, contem¬ 
plates no such serious alternatives, as in general, all the 
serious symptoms, and even the inconveniences of the 
period, are promptly relieved. 

Treatment. —The No. Twenty-nine is very generally 
efficient. Take six pellets dry on the tongue at night on 
retiring, and in the morning before rising, and again at 
mid-day if needful. In some severe cases it may be better 
to dissolve twelve pellets in six spoonfuls of water, and of 
this take a spoonful every two hours during the waking 
hours. In some extreme cases, when the nausea and 
vomiting is excessive, the No. Six may be taken in the 
same manner as above indicated. 

Constipation. —Constipation, more or less marked, is 
a very common attendant of pregnancy. If persons are 
habitually of constipated habit, it becomes more decided 
during this period. See page 387. In addition to treat¬ 
ment there advised, in some cases the No. Twenty-nine, 
six pellets at night, and the No. Ten in the morning, will 
answer the purpose better. Enemas of tepid water may 
be resorted to if necessary. 

Diarrhea. —In some cases, diarrhea more or less de¬ 
cided, or in occasional attacks, occurs during pregnancy, 
and especially in the latter stages, should demand attention. 
The usual remedies for this disease, as mentioned in the 
chapter on that subject, will be found efficient. Generally 
a few doses of the No. Four, six pellets taken dry, and 
repeated after every stool, will be sufficient to arrest the 
difficulty. If the discharges are very loose and watery, the 
No. Six may be more appropriate. 

Dysuria. —Difficulty in passing the water is not of unfre¬ 
quent occurence with pregnant women. And in some 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DISEASES OF WOMEN. 443 

cases the calls are so frequent and annoying as to demand 
attention. 

For Symptoms and Treatment see page 412. 

Fainting and hysteria. —Delicate, sensitive, or nervous 
women, are sometimes attacked with turns of fainting 
during pregnancy. They are generally without serious 
annoyance, and pass over readily. Plenty of exercise in 
the open air, and attention to proper rules of diet and re¬ 
gimen, are the best preventatives against this affection; 
but in cases where these prove insufficient, we should en¬ 
deavor to ascertain and remove the cause. Tight lacing, 
warm rooms, the free use of coffee or other stimulants may 
be the exciting cause, and their simple removal will prove 
efficient. Should an attack not immediately pass off, 
loosening the dress, removal to the fresh air, and sprinkling 
the face with cold water, are the most judicious means of 
revival. The No. Three will at once quiet the nervous 
excitability of the system, and may be given in portions 
of two pellets, repeated hourly, if occasion requires. To 
prevent the recurrence of similar attacks, especially if the 
patient be of full or plethoric habit, the No. Thirty-five 
may be given, six pellets night and morning. These 
remedies will rarely fail to afford the desired relief. 

Toothache. —This is very frequent and annoying affec¬ 
tion in the earlier months of pregnancy, and is sometimes 
one of its earliest indications. See pages 262—264. 

Treatment. —The No. Eight may be first tried, six 
pellets dry, and administered every hour. Should relief 
not be afforded in some hours, give No. Three in the 
same manner. Should there be throbbing in the teeth 
or face, the No. One will be efficient. In very sensitive, 
nervous subjects, No. Eleven has proved promptly 
curative. In full blooded, plethoric subjects, No. Thirty- 
five has often relieved. These remedies, or even 


444 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


others may be used in succession, or even in alternation, 
with success. 

Swelled Face —tumefaction of the cheek.—In addition 
to treatment recommended on page 265, the use of No. 
Eleven, given in doses of six pellets, and repeated every 
two hours in alternation, will prove efficient. 

Varices —(Swelled Veins ).— It not unfrequently occurs 
in the later months of gestation, that some women suffer 
from distention and enlargement of the veins of the thighs, 
lower abdomen, and of other parts. The veins in these 
situations become enlarged, blue and turgid, inducing 
sometimes pain and much inconvenience. They are, in 
part, occasioned by the pressure of the gravid uterus upon 
the blood vessels, thus obstructing the circulation; and, 
in part, from constitutional weakness of the individual, 
reflected upon the venous circulation. Unless relieved, 
the varices are liable to remain even after the occasioning 
cause has disappeared, and to give serious inconvenience 
in after-life. They are much increased by the use of 
stimulants, which should, under such circumstances, be 
avoided, as well as an indolent habit of life. 

Treatment. —A reasonable amount of exercise should 
be enjoined, and the parts affected should be bathed 
morning and night with Humphreys’ Marvel Witch 
Hazel. Half a teaspoonful of Humphreys’ Marvel 
Witch Hazel should be taken internally, three times per 
day. 

In severe cases of varicose veins of the legs the best 
treatment is to order an elastic stocking of proper length 
and size to cover the part. Then, elevating the limb so as 
to drain the blood from the veins as far as possible, lay 
over the swelled veins a cloth saturated with Humphreys’ 
Marvel Witch Hazel, and over this turn the elastic 
Stocking or band; renewing the same morning and night. 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DISEASES OF WOMEN. 445 

Pains in the Back. —( Lumbo-Sacral Pains ).—Some women 
Buffer during pregnancy from pains in the lower part of the 
back, sometimes proving quite distressing especially when 
they occur at night, and thereby disturb sleep. They are 
generally described as an aching, or a dull, heavy, dragging 
pressure, as if from a weight resting upon the affected 
part. They will usually be relieved by the use of the No. 
Fifteen, six pellets three or four times per day. Some¬ 
times they are associated with Piles, in which case the 
No. Seventeen may prove the more efficient remedy, 
and may be given as above, or may even be given 
in alternation with the No. Fifteen. Usually six pellets 
of No. Ten at night, and of No. Fifteen each morning, will 
afford satisfactory relief. 

Miscarriage.— Miscarriage may occur at any period be¬ 
tween the first and seventh month, but in the large pro¬ 
portion of cases, it occurs about the third or beginning of 
the fourth month. When it takes place before or about this 
period, it is frequently attended with but comparatively 
little pain or danger; yet frequent miscarriages at this 
period, from the great discharges that take place, tend to 
undermine the strength and constitution of the patient, and 
not unfrequently produce as a result, barrenness or severe 
chronic disease. When a miscarriage occurs at a more ad¬ 
vanced period, it assumes a very serious complexion, and is 
often attended with a considerable degree of peril to the 
sufferer. Women who have once suffered from the occur¬ 
rence of a miscarriage, are exceedingly liable to its re¬ 
currence, and this liability is increased with every sub¬ 
sequent miscarriage; so that in a comparatively short period, 
a condition is induced which renders it exceedingly difficult 
for the womb to retain the foetus up to the full term, re¬ 
sulting in a very intractable form of sterility. 

The premonitory and accompanying symptoms of mis- 
larriage vary much in their nature; sometimes a discharge 


446 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR 


of blood occurs which is very profuse, and at others moder¬ 
ate or even inconsiderable; the pains in some instances are 
severe and protracted, and at others comparatively slight 
and of short duration. 

Sudden mental emotions, or great physical exertion; me¬ 
chanical injuries, such as shocks, blows, or falls; a luxurious 
mode of life, fashionable habits or dissipations; powerful 
aperients; neglecting to take air or exercise, are some of the 
more common exciting causes of the affection; and to this 
should be added, that the predisposition is strong in the 
highly plethoric, and those of delicate and nervous habits. An 
abnormal condition of the system is doubtless the predis¬ 
posing cause. 

Miscarriage is generally attended by the majority of the 
following symptoms: A sensation of chill, followed by 
fever, with more or less bearing down, particularly when 
occurring late in pregnancy; also severe pains in the abdomen, 
drawing or cutting pains in the loins, or pains often bearing 
a close resemblance to those of labor; discharge of viscid 
mucus and blood, sometimes of bright red blood, not un- 
frequently mixed with coagula, at other times dark and 
clotted blood, followed by emissions of serous fluid. The 
miscarriage generally occurs during this discharge, which 
occasionally continues, if not checked, to flow for some 
hours, often placing the sufferer in considerable jeopardy. 
When the pains increase in intensity, and the muscular 
contractions become established, with their regular throes 
and efforts to dilate the mouth of the womb, miscarriage is 
almost inevitable. 

Treatment. —In cases where a woman has had one or 
more miscarriages, it is evident that a predisposition to this 
accident exists, and more than usual care should be exer¬ 
cised to prevent a similar result, and such persons should 
especially avoid all the exciting causes which have been 
above mentioned. But, beside these prudential considera- 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DISEASES OF WOMEN. 447 

tions in habits, *labor and exercise, proper medicine may 
be taken to allay or remove that morbid irritability of the 
uterus, which lies at the foundation of the difficulty. To 
this end the No. Eleven, simply six pellets taken every 
other night, and continued along during the period men¬ 
tioned, from the second to the fourth month, will prove 
efficacious. Sometimes the occasional use of Sabina, sixth 
dilution, or of Secale , same dilution, given at intervals of 
six or eight days, will produced similar result. 

When the symptoms indicating an impending mis¬ 
carriage have made their appearance, such as: A Slight 
show; sensation of dull, heavy pressure in the back or 
loins; pains in the lower abdomen, bearing down or 
dragging, the patient should at once retire to her room, 
assume the recumbent posture, or in some cases go to bed 
and sleep with but slight covering; the apartment should 
be kept cool, and every method be employed to ensure 
perfect tranquillity of mind. The diet should be light, 
and warm or stimulating drinks be generally avoided. If 
the misfortune has proved unavoidable, or has accidentally 
taken place before assistance has been sought, the patient 
ought still to remain quiet a few days, lest a fresh discharge 
should be brought on from too early getting up, or going 
about. When the first symptoms mentioned above are 
perceived, six pellets of No. Eleven should be taken dry 
on the tongue, and perfect rest and quiet enjoined. If 
not better in an hour, take the same quantity of No. 
Three, and continue these two medicines in alternation, 
at intervals of one, two or three hours, according to cir¬ 
cumstances, diminishing the frequency of doses as the 
symptoms diminish or disappear. 

Should the miscarriage have occurred or become 
inevitable from the great loss of blood, the No. 
Twenty-four, will be among the best means to arrest 


448 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


the flow, and given four times per day, it relieves the ex¬ 
haustion and debility resulting from such hemorrhage or 
accident. In extreme cases, when the excessive flooding, 
occurring at later periods of pregnancy, produces faintness 
and exhaustion, or threatens life from its excess or long 
continuance, the use of Humphreys'Marvel "Witch Hazel, 
half a teaspoonful, repeated every half hour or at longer 
intervals, according to circumstances, acts like magic, and 
arrests the frightful flow. The hips should at same time 
be raised to a higher level than the shoulders. 


TREATMENT BEFORE PARTURITION. 

Preparation of the Breasts.— Young mothers frequently 
find great difficulty in suckling their children, resulting 
from some organic defect, or imperfect development of the 
nipple. In many instances the structure of the breasts is 
disorganized, from an ignorant nurse having compressed 
them in infancy, under the idea of such a process being 
needful for the expulsion of some matter in the breast of 
the child; a vulgar error, against which mothers should be 
particularly watchful. Inability to nurse is also liable to 
occur from the pressure of stays in after life, by which the 
cuticle is rendered so tender as to preclude nursing. In 
almost every case a preparation of the breasts is necessary 
some weeks before delivery, in order to prepare them for 
their future office. 

The first two instances, organic defect or an undeveloped 
nipple, may be beyond the power of art. If suckling be 
attempted, induration of the nipple and breasts ensues, 
attended with severe suffering. If, however, a simple 
tenderness of the epidermis exists, the evil will be much 
alleviated by bathing the nipples in brandy each morning 
and night for several weeks before delivery. Another diffi- 


Disease and treatment.—diseases of women. 449 

culty frequently accompanying this state, is a shortness or 
retraction of the nipple, so that the infant cannot take hold 
of it. This also is frequently a cause of the first, from the 
frequent ineffectual efforts of the infant to suck, injuring 
the part. In this case, appropriate shields of rubber or 
wood may be applied, to accustom the nipple to elongate 
and protrude, so as to present a sufficient hold for the 
infant when the period for suckling arrives, and then the 
efforts of the child will still further contribute to the same 
object. In this case also, bathing as before mentioned, 
with brandy, will tend to correct any tenderness of the 
skin, and prevent subsequent excoriation. 

Remedies Before Labor. —Many things have been re¬ 
commended before labor, and among them blood-letting 
and aperient medicines, with a view of preparing the 
system for the important function. But better judgment 
and experience has discarded them as being in no wise 
necessary, but often injurious, tending to impair the 
energies of the system, and to place the system in an ab¬ 
normal state of irritation and excitement. Where an evi¬ 
dently plethoric state exists, with fullness of the head and 
system generally, six pellets of Number One, repeated 
daily, or even more frequently, will be found fully suffi¬ 
cient and will serve a far better purpose than bleeding or 
aperients. 

A movement of the bowels previous to delivery is de¬ 
sirable, and may be obtained by a simple enema of warm 
water, to which may be added, if the simple warm water 
should prove insufficient, a large spoonful of oil. 

False Pains. —In some cases real labor is preceded for a 
few hours, and indeed in others several days or even weeks, 
by what are known as false pains. They are the result of 
congestion of the organs involved, and result from errors in 
regimen, emotions of the mind, effects of a chill to the ab¬ 
domen, or other exciting causes. They differ chiefly from 


450 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


labor pains, in the irregularity of their recurrence; in being 
unconnected with uterine contractions; are chiefly confined to 
the abdomen , with sensibility to touch and movement; and in 
not increasing in intensity as they return. Occasionally, from 
their close resemblance, it is quite difficult to discriminate 
between them and real labor pains, and in such instances 
we must be guided chiefly by the period of gestation; and 
our proper and safe mode is to endeavor to control them, 
if they occur at a period some week or two before the 
proper time for labor, and mitigate the sufferings of the 
patient; as, if they are permitted to go on unchecked, they 
may continue until the time of delivery, rendering the labor 
more painful, exhausting, and tedious. Proper medication 
will, in general, either arrest them, or convert them into 
true labor pains. 

Treatment.— Generally a few doses of No. One, six 
pellets, repeated at intervals of one or two hours, will 
be found sufficient. Should, however, the result not be 
satisfactory, administer the No. Eleven, in the same 
manner, or give the No. Three, if the patient should be 
very nervous or excitable. 

4 

PARTURITION. 

Natural labor takes place at the end of the ninth month 
of pregnancy, or two hundred and seventy days from the 
period of conception. Counting six weeks to the usual 
appearance of morning sickness, and four months to the 
period of quickening, and nine months from the last men¬ 
struation, the period of labor may be looked for with 
tolerable certainty. The pains accompanying uterine 
contractions are regular and effective, and the entire pro¬ 
cess does not continue beyond twenty-four hours, rarely 
above twelve, and quite frequently not longer than four or 
fix. Were it not that acquired habits often derange or 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT—DISEASES OF WOMEN. 451 

distort the natural and symmetrical provisions of nature, 
(habits that weaken and enervate, and customs that distort 
and derange, either acquired or transmitted), parturition 
would be comparatively free from pain and almost free 
from danger. 

Tedious Labors. —When labor is protracted beyond the 
period above mentioned, or is attended with an excessive 
degree of suffering, which is the more liable to occur when 
the women is of slender form, and of highly nervous and 
sensitive habit, it is proper to avail ourselves of all the re¬ 
sources of art, to mitigate her sufferings. 

Thus, if the pains seem to be ineffective, the face red 
and flushed, and the patient distressed, out of proportion 
to the effectiveness of the pains, give six pellets of the No. 
One, and repeat it in an hour if not relieved. 

If the pains are what are called wrangling , in the abdo¬ 
men or lower extremities, and not from the back, drawing 
down forward, give the No. Eleven in the same manner. 

If the patient is very nervous, excitable, and the pains 
slight or inefficient, even with some tendency to cramps of 
the extremities, give the No. Three, six pellets every half 
hour, and repeat it until these symptoms yield, and the 
pains become strong and expulsive. 

Cramps and Convulsions. —In complicated labors we 
sometimes have spasmodic pains as indicated above, which 
do but little towards advancing the labor; and, in rare 
cases, severe cramps, or even convulsions. These should 
be carefully guarded against. The No. Three should be 
given, six pellets, dry on the tongue, and repeated every 
half hour, or hour, so long as extreme nervousness and ex¬ 
citability of the patient continues. If, notwithstanding 
its use, and the very essential procedure of keeping the 
room quiet, and exciting persons or things as far removed 
as possible, the excitement of the patient still continue, or 
in case actual cramps or convulsions have supervened, give 


452 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


the No. Thirty-three, six pellets at once, and repeat it 
every hour until the danger is removed. 


TREATMENT AFTER DELIVERY. 

Immediately after delivery, and the proper adjustment 
of the bed, the woman should be left to the undisturbed 
rest and repose which are the great restoratives of nature. 
Everything which tends to excite the patient—noise, light, 
talking, or excitement of any kind—should be avoided, 
and the patient be quietly allowed to rest for some hours; 
yet it is commendable to see that the discharges are not 
excessive, and that the pulse is not sinking. An hour or 
two of good quiet rest will do more to restore, than tea, 
stimulants, or food at this time. Should the patient be 
kept from sleeping, from excitement, give six pellets of 
No. Forty, which will soon allay it, and serve also to 
stimulate the natural contractions of the womb. In the 
event of too profuse discharge, or even flooding, the No. 
Three may be given, six pellets every half hour; or should 
there be faintness, or very profuse flow, a half teaspoonful 
of Humphreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel may at once be re¬ 
sorted to, and repeated every half hour until it is controlled. 

The patient should mostly keep to her bed for the first 
eight days; after four or six days, if she feels strong and 
so desires, she may be permitted to sit up a short period 
daily, to have her bed made and aired. It is important 
for the womb to reduce itself and recover its natural posi¬ 
tion; that the women be kept at rest, and in a recumbent 
posture for the eight or fourteen days, and careful attention 
to this advice will prevent much of infirmity, debility and 
after-disease. The diet should be of light and easily-digested 
food, avoiding all stimulants or exciting beverages, and 
being guided in quantity by the desires of the patient; 
bearing in mind that for the first few days, nature calls for 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DISEASES OF WOMEN. 453 

but little nourishment, and that if given when the patient 
does not desire it, it will be more liable to be injurious than 
beneficial. All stimulating or very nutritious food must be 
avoided the first few days. 

For the constipation, which is the natural result of de¬ 
livery, nothing should be done at first, as it is altogether a 
proper and salutary condition; time being required for the 
organs to regain their natural tone and position, which 
should not be interfered with by aperients. If, after four or 
six days, the bowels should not move spontaneously, an in¬ 
jection of warm water may be administered, and assisted by 
six pellets of No. Ten, given at night, and these may be re¬ 
peated, if necessary, until natural evacuations are estab¬ 
lished. 

Suppressed or Scanty Secretion of Milk. —It is of im¬ 
portance that the processes of nature follow in proper order, 
and with due regularity, and hence, it is proper to correct, 
so far as in our power, any important deviation. Some¬ 
times the proper secretion of milk is prevented by undue 
heat, distention, excessive or undue vitality of the breasts. 
In such cases, a few doses of No. One, six pellets given 
at intervals of four hours, will allay the heat and disten¬ 
tion, and the secretion will proceed with regularity. If, 
however, the secretion seems to fail from a want of secre¬ 
tory power in the gland itself, the use of No. Eleven, 
given in like manner, will promote the natural flow. 

Milk Fever. —The secretion of milk in considerable 
quantities is often preceded or accompanied with a general 
febrile movement of the system, which is known by the 
term of milk fever. It is known by thirst, slight shivering 
and heat, terminating in mild perspiration; the pulse is 
quickened, and sometimes variable; at times frequent, or 
soft and regular. Sometimes there is drawing pain in the 
back, extending to the breast; bad taste in the mouth; 


454 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


oppressed respiration, anxiety and headache; the exacer¬ 
bation comes on towards evening, with perspiration towards 
morning, and temporary relief or termination of the 
attack, which not unfrequently returns the following day. 
but rarely rises to such a hight as to indicate danger. 
Nature herself, if not disturbed by injudicious treatment, 
in most cases restores the proper equilibrium. When the 
milk secretion is established, and the lochial discharge re¬ 
sumes its wanted course, the derangement generally ceases 
Should, however, the affection become established, we may 
apprehend the setting in of puerperal fever. 

The indications above mentioned call for the No. One, 
which may best be given by dissolving twelve pellets in 
six spoonfuls of water, of which one may be given every 
hour at first, and then at intervals of two hours, until the 
fever* quite disappears, and the normal secretions are 
established. 

Lochial Discharge. —This continues, usually, from nine 
to fourteen days, but varies considerably in different 
women, sometimes being but slight, at others, copious and 
continuing for a long time. Its deviations require atten¬ 
tion. If it becomes suppressed, or thin, pale, and pre¬ 
maturely scanty, No. Eleven should be given, six pellets 
every two or three hours. If pain and fever attend the 
diminution or suppression, No. One should be given in 
water, twelve pellets every hour, until this condition is 
removed. If it is too free, or remains full or high-colored 
after nine days, No. Twenty-four should be given, six 
pellets three times per day. 

Alopecia.—Falling out of the Hair. —Not unfrequent¬ 
ly, especially in feeble or debilitated constitutions, the hair 
falls out, during or soon after the period of confinement. 
If the patient is debilitated in consequence of flooding, or 
the excessive drains upon the system, the evil will be 
corrected by the use of No. Twenty-four, taking 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DISEASES OF WOMEN. 455 


six pellets three times per day. If the cause is not so. 
apparent, and must be sought for in some inherent delicacy 
of the constitution, the use of No. Thirty-five and No. 
Twenty-nine, giving six pellets of the former in the 
morning, and the latter at night. Care should be taken 
in dressing the hair during this condition of the scalp, not 
to comb or brush it too harshly, as you may thus pull out 
large quantities of hair that a more appropriate manage¬ 
ment would have preserved. 

Leucorrhea after Parturition. —Appears, at first, only 
as an extension of the natural discharges in consequence 
of the relaxation of the uterine economy; at the beginning 
mild and inocuous, but gradually assuming an acrid or 
morbid condition, producing sensibility and excoriation. 
It is sometimes very obstinate and often troublesome. 

For Treatment, see page 428. 

Internal Swelling and Prolapsus of interior organs is 
frequently the result of difficult labor, and is often found 
complicated with uterine or vaginal prolapsus. The use 
of Humphreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel externally as a lave¬ 
ment, and as an injection prepared as above, one part of 
Humphreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel to two of water, is 
soverign in .all similar cases, and may be administered 
two or three times per day. At the same time, No. 
Thirty-five, six pellets, may be given, three times per day. 

Metritis. —(Inflammation of the womb ).—The more con¬ 
stant symptoms of this very serious affection, are: Fever, 
pain, continuous burning or shooting in the lower abdomi¬ 
nal region, accompanied with a sensation of weight; sore¬ 
ness or tenderness of that region on pressure or movement. 
The abdomen becomes hot, and gradually tumefied, the 
secretion of lochia and milk diminished or arrested, likewise 
the urine and feces. It is usually caused by severe, unnat¬ 
ural or protracted labors, or by harsh manual interference 
during labor, or may result from retained placenta or clots or 


456 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


mental emotions, chill, etc. In a less active form, it may 
occur in women who have never borne children, as the re¬ 
sult of chill, cold feet, inflammation of neighboring organs, 
external injuries, etc. 

The No. One should be given, twelve pellets dissolved 
in six large spoonfuls of water, of which one should be 
given every hour, and this medication continued with en¬ 
tire rest and quiet until the power of the disease is broken, 
and the normal discharges re-established. 

Excoriation of the Nipples.— If the nipples have been 
properly prepared for their office by frequent bathing with 
brandy, the Humphreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel, or other 
hardening preparations, there will be less liability of ex¬ 
coriation; nevertheless, it sometimes appears, owing to 
some peculiar dyscrasia of the system. The nipples become 
sore, excoriated or cracked, and bleed, and are exquisitely 
painful at every attempt of the child to nurse. 

Treatment. —From the first, after every nursing, the 
nipples should be carefully moistened with Humphreys’ 
Marvel Witch Hazel, diluted one half with water; and, 
after being thus thoroughly moistened, should be carefully 
dried with a soft cloth or fine lint, and this process should 
be constantly repeated after nursing. In some cases a soft 
rubber shield can be worn to advantage, but to be effective, 
it must fit nicely, and be worn easily. Internally, the No. 
Three should be given, six pellets three times per day, to 
remove any constitutional impediment to the healing. In 
cases where these remedies remain ineffectual, resort may 
be had to a dose of six pellets of No. Twenty-two, at 
night, while the No. Three is given morning and at noon; 
and so continue for some days. 

Mastitis. —(Inflammation of the Breasts—Gathered Breast 
—Ague in the Breast) .—It commences with a chill, to which 
some degree of fever is soon associated, and the breast, or 
some portion of it becomes tumefied, swelled, sensitive and 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DISEASES OF WOMEN. 457 

painful, with an erysipelatous swelling and redness extend¬ 
ing over some portion of the surface. In case the inflamma¬ 
tion is not early arrested, suppuration takes place, the swell¬ 
ing points, and the abscess must be opened and pus 
discharged; or it will open of itself, causing a much more 
extensive disorganization and discharge, and a disfiguring 
cicatrix. 

Treatment. —No. One should be given at once, twelve 
pellets dissolved in six dessert spoonfuls of water, and of this 
a large spoonful should be given every hour for the first 
twelve hours, and then every two hours, until the inflamma¬ 
tion subsides. Advantage will also be derived from the 
application of a cloth, several folds of which have been 
saturated with Humphreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel, and ap¬ 
plied well over the part or breast, and the whole covered with 
flannel, so as to protect the clothing and person from moist¬ 
ure, the application may be removed as often as it gets hot or 
dry. 

If the inflammation has progressed so far that suppura¬ 
tion cannot be arrested, or has already taken place, the 
use of No. Twenty-two, six pellets every three hours, 
will be the best medicine to promote that object, and at 
the same time to limit its extension. It is likewise the 
best medicine, to limit the suppurative process, and heal 
the wound after the abscess has been opened. 

Weakness or Perspiration during Confinement.— 
Sometimesthere remains an excessive degree of debility after 
delivery, continuing several weeks beyond the usual period; 
and in consequence the patient sweats easily during any ef¬ 
fort, or on going to sleep. This condition of weakness, in¬ 
dicating an exhausted or enfeebled vitality, is best met by 
No. Twenty-four, of which two tablets, four times per 
day, may be given with advantage, or simply at night, if 
there is merely too free perspiration at night, or on sleeping. 


£68 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


Ovarian Dropsy. —(Ovarian Tumor ).—"We mention this 
disease liere, as it usually first presents itself in the form of 
ascites or abdominal dropsy; but in this case there is 
always a tumor or morbid growth from one of the ovaries, 
generally the left, which, gradually enlarging apparently 
from just above the pubic bone, more on one side, extends 
upwards and over the abdomen, at first more hard and 
firm, and to which the softer fluctuation of the fluid is after¬ 
wards associated; for it is only after the weight and volume 
of the tumor has compromised the abdominal circulation, 
that the effusion takes place. "When this has occurred, the 
symptoms are not unlike ascites—large tumid abdomen, 
cedematous extremities, and scanty secretion with often- 
disturbed menstruation. 

Treatment. —The No. Twenty-five may be given as 
in general dropsy, six pellets dissolved in water, and 
administered every three hours. 

A remarkable cure was made by the use of Humphreys* 
Marvel Witch Hazel, not only of the effusion but of the 
tumor itself, and should the No. Twenty-five fail, I should 
not hesitate to recommend its adoption. 

TKEATMENT OF INFANTS. 

Homeopathy possesses many advantages in the treatment 
of the diseases of children and infants. The first mani¬ 
festations of morbid action are thus met in their formative 
stage, and not only are they crushed in the bud, but the 
tendency thereto is eradicated from the system. Constitu¬ 
tional tendencies to disease are thus destroyed, and the 
entire development is symmetrical and happy. On the 
contrary, when the diseases of infancy and early childhood 
are met by the pernicious drugs so much in vogue in the 
old school of medicine, not only are the diseases themselves 
Hot eradicated from the system, but drug action is often set 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DISEASES OF WOMEN. 459 

up, false, perverted or morbid action is engendered, and 
the germs of what become life-long maladies are thus un¬ 
wisely planted. Thousands of ill-developed, misanthropic, 
and unhappily constituted persons, owe their life-long in¬ 
firmities to the injudicious use of drugs or crude medicines, 
given with the best intentions during their infancy. 

After Birth. —Immediately after the separation of the 
cord, the child should be wrapped in a soft flannel, which 
has been carefully warmed, and be laid upon its left side, 
After the mother has been cared for, the child should be 
washed with tepid water, with a soft cloth, care being taken 
not to continue the first washing too long, not to rub the 
child, nor to apply soap, as the skin is very delicate and 
tender, and the entire organism unaccustomed to cold, or 
to rough usage. After washing, dry the infant immediate¬ 
ly, by taking up the moisture with a soft, warm cloth, 
rather than by rubbing, always avoiding the risk of the 
child becoming chilled or taking cold. Nor should infants 
be swathed or overburdened with a superfluity of clothes, 
a source of not unfrequent deformity and weakness. 

Swelling of the head very commonly appears in infants 
to some extent, and sometimes, indeed, a large tumor 
appears, which seems very formidable, and excites appre¬ 
hension. This swelling generally disappears of itself after 
a few days. Should it be considerable, wetting the head 
with Humphreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel, diluted one-half 
with tepid water, will rapidly promote the absorption of 
the tumor. Should there be a swelling which seems to 
contain fluid over the fontanel or large opening on the head, 
one pellet of No. Twenty-two will hasten its removal. 

Expulsion of the Meconium is best effected by the nat¬ 
ural milk of the mother, which, at its first appearance after 
delivery, has the precise qualities adapted to that purpose. 
Hence, so soon as the child begins to desire food, and the 
mother has recovered sufficient strength to permit it, say 


460 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


from eight to twelve hours after birth, the child may be 
applied to the breast. Should it get but a trifle, even that 
will be of benefit to the child, and the effort will stimulate 
the secretion, so that after a few times it will become 
established. Its gradual appearance is better than to have 
it come in a flood, with fever after two or more days. On 
no account should drugs or domestic herb teas be given to 
the child to promote this object. A spoonful of sweetened 
water from time to time will be much better, or even ah 
injection of equal parts of pure sweet oil and water. 

The Diet of the Nurse must be simple, easily digestible; 
and with a due proportion of vegetable and animal food. 
That which is too highly concentrated or stimulating may 
be injurious, by causing the milk to become too rich and 
unsuited to the delicate digestion of the infant. In some 
rare cases, wine, ale, or even porter, may be used to promote 
the secretion, and sustain the strength of the nurse. But, 
evil is done in more cases than good, and in general the 
resort to the use of stimulants should be avoided, and the 
system should be sustained by those best purveyors of 
nature, quiet, avoidance of fatigue, anxiety, good food and 
sufficient sleep 

Supplementary Diet of Infants. —The best and most 
natural food is the milk of the mother. Even if it only 
in part supplies the want of the child, it is better to retain 
even this, as in case of sickness of the infant, it furnishes a 
precious reserve to be supplied in no other way. Cows s 
milk is the most usual substitute, and should at first be di¬ 
luted by adding one-third of water, and slightly sweetened. 
If milk is to remain some time during warm weather, it 
should be first heated to prevent too rapid change. Great 
care should be taken that the nursing bottle be perfectly 
clean and sweet; and food which has been standing,, or is in 
danger of having deteriorated, must on no account be 
given. Better make that which vou know to be sweet and 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DISEASES OF INFANTS. 461 

fresh, than to assume a risk. After some weeks the milk 
may he given without water, and as the first teeth appear, 
about the fourth or sixth month, the diet should become 
more varied and liberal; a well made panada, diluted milk, 
sweetened and thickened with a small quantity of arrow- 
root, sago or rusk, may be given with advantage. So barley- 
water, well-boiled gruel, weak chicken-tea or beef-tea, may 
be resorted to, taking care to give that on which the child 
seems to thrive best. Gradually, as the teeth appear, the 
child may be given the usual food from the table, and in 
such quantities, and in such form, as the organism seems 
to require. 

Weaning.— The length of time a child should nurse, 
depends upon many considerations, such as: The health of 
the child, of the mother, and the season of the year, and 
the facility of substituting an appropriate diet. In general, 
a child should be nursed from nine to fifteen months. If 
care be taken to gradually substitute a proper diet, a child 
Will gradually wean itself before that period. The child 
had better not be weaned suddenly, but gradually, and in 
proportion as the teeth appear. With the full development 
of the teeth, the organism is generally prepared to thrive 
without the aid of the breast. Weaning during the hot 
season is hazardous, from the liability to diarrhoeas, or the 
usual summer complaints. 

DISEASES OF INFANTS. 

Inflammation of the Eyes of new-born infants may arise 
from sudden exposure to the strong glare of daylight. If 
the eyes look red, and shrink from the light, are tearful, 
or watery, dissolve a single pellet of N u m b e r One in a 
spoonful of water, and give of this a few drops once per 
day for two or three days. If not cured, give a single 
pellet of No. Eighteen in the same manner, keeping tho 
child’s eyes free from the irritation of all bright light. 


462 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


Cold in the Head usually takes the form of obstruction 
of the nose, impeding the action of suckling, and causing 
the infant to release the nipple, and rendering it irritable 
and fretful. If the nose is dry within, we may imitate the 
natural secretion by applying a little almond oil or cream, 
on a feather, to the interior of the nostril. Usually the 
No. Three, one pellet given three times per day, will re¬ 
move the difficulty. If it fails, give the No. Nineteen in 
the same manner. It may be given in water, or even dry 
in the mouth, after the child is some weeks old. 

Crying and Wakefulness of Infants will, with proper 
care to the diet and regimen of the mother and child, be 
fully obviated by the use of No. Three. Of course the 
child must be properly changed, made comfortable and 
satisfied with food; and it must not be taking, with its 
food from the mother, the flatulent food or exciting drinks, 
coffee, strong tea, or other stimulants which she imbibes. 
These conditions met, the No. Three will afford quiet, 
refreshing sleep and rest, and freedom from the colic and 
cries so common in the nursery. Of course all drops, 
soothing syrups, or anodynes must be banished. 

Regurgitation of food. —Children often in nursing over¬ 
load themselves with milk, and as a salutary provision of 
nature, they regurgitate or throw up a portion of it. No 
interference is required in such cases. But where all, or 
a large portion of food taken, is thrown up again, or 
regurgitated matter is sour, followed by mucus or watery 
fluid, or the children are sick, or appear nauseated, med¬ 
ical interference is desirable. In such cases an occasional 
pellet of No. Ten will correct the action of the stomach. 
Should there be nausea or actual vomiting, No. Six, given 
as above, will be better. It may be given dissolved in a 
spoonful of water, or even dry to somewhat older children. 
Milk Crusts—Eruptions . —A scurfy eruption sometimes 


Disease and treatment.—diseases of infants. 463 


appears upon the hair scalp, which in places becomes 
brownish bran-like. The application of a drop or two of 
nice sweet-oil, with the gen tie aid of a soft brush or fine 
comb, soon removes it, care being taken not to injure the 
surface. Meantime a pellet of No. Fourteen, given at 
night for a few days, will arrest the tendency to its 
production. 

Milk Crusts ; see Eczema, page 220. For these cases the 
No. Fourteen, one pellet for infants, or two for children 
over one year of age, may be given morning, noon, 
and at night, each dissolved in a spoonful of water. If the 
itching is se\ ere, causing restlessness and fretfulness, dis¬ 
solve of No. One, six pellets in as many spoonfuls of 
water, and of this give a spoonful every hour between the 
intermediate doses of No. Fourteen; and this No. One 
may be thus used as an intermediate remedy, so long as 
the itching and irritation continues. A trifle of sweet-oil 
will at any time remove the crusts. But they had better 
fall off of themselves, and I advise to apply soap or water 
to them as seldom as the purpose of cleanliness will permit. 

Thrush or Aphthje shows itself by the formation of 
small, isolated, round, white vesicles, which, if not checked, 
may run together, and present an ulcerated appearance, or 
form a thin, white crust, which lines the entire cavity of 
the mouth, and in severe cases involves the throat and en¬ 
tire alimentary canal. It is rarely dangerous or malignant, 
but occasions inconvenience besides pain and suffering, 
obstructing the child’s nursing, and may be communicated 
to the nipples, causing excoriation, etc. It is often the 
result of imperfect ventilation, inattention to cleanliness, 
the nursing bottle not being kept perfectly clean and 
sweet, improper food, etc. Hence, infants brought up by 
hand, as it is termed, are more subject to the disease than 
others. A very weak solution of Borax, applied to tha 
mouth with a brush, is very generally useful. The No* 


464 


Homeopathic mentor. 


Twenty-nine, six pellets dissolved in as many spoonfuls 
of water, and given, a spoonful every four hours, will be 
found sufficient to remove the disease. When it exists in 
only a slighter degree, a single pellet given dry, morning 
and night, will be sufficient. 

Constipation will rarely be troublesome among children 
properly nursed or nourished, and under Homeopathic re¬ 
gimen. But should the stools be too large, tardy, insuffi¬ 
cient or obstructed, dissolve of No. Ten, two pellets in two 
large spoonful* of water, of which give one at night, and 
the other in the morning, and this may be continued until 
the dejections become natural. An enema of tepid water 
may occasionally be resorted to if necessary; or a supposi¬ 
tory, consisting of a small slip of paper or linen, spirally 
twisted and well lubricated with oil, may be gently intro¬ 
duced into the rectum by a simple rotatory movement, 
from time to time, until the medicine has remedied the 
irregularity. 

Diarrhea of Infants. —Diarrhea, like constipation, is 
merely a symptom and hardly a disease. The first element 
of a cure for diarrhea of infants, is to carefully examine as 
to the quality and quantity of its food and care, and to see 
that these give no occasion for the difficulty. The use of 
No. Three from time to time, for colic, crying, sleepless¬ 
ness, or teething, will usually check any predisposition to 
diarrhea, and it may be used for this purpose, giving to 
infants one pellet dry in the mouth after every loose or 
diarrheic stool. Should this not prove sufficient, the No. 
Four may be administered in the same manner, one 
pellet after every loose stool; thus the urgency of the 
symptom will be the measure of the repetition of the 
medicine. 

Excoriations—Intertrigo. —Cleanliness is the best pre¬ 
ventive; careful bathing, and taking special care that all 
the folds of the skin, such as the neck, groin, etc., be care- 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DISEASES OF INFANTS. 465 

fully wiped dry, but not excoriated or irritated, with lint 
or a very soft cloth. The No. Three is here also appropri¬ 
ate to remove any tendencies to these excoriations, and may 
be given for such purpose, one pellet three times per day. 

Derangements during Teething. —The production of 
teeth, like other evolutions of the system, is attended with 
some degree of constitutional disturbance. In most cases 
and under Homeopathic regimen, these derangements are 
slight and easily removed, in others they may be more 
serious. Should there be, as is more frequently the case, 
restlessness, worrying, sleeplessness, and tardy appear¬ 
ance of the teeth, the No. Three is the proper remedy 
and may be given one pellet dry in the mouth every hour 
or two hours, according to the urgency of the case. If 
diarrhea sets in and becomes troublesome—remembering 
that a slight looseness of the bowels during this period is 
not prejudicial—it may be controlled by the No. Four, 
one pellet after every loose stool. Should there be fever 
or heat of the head, crying and worrying, or drowsiness, 
have resource at once to the No. One, of which dissolve 
six pellets in twelve spoonfuls of water, and of this give a 
teaspoonful every hour until the fever, restlessness, or 
drowsiness has passed away. 

The Tardy or Irregular Development of Teeth is 
often a subject of serious moment, indicating a want of 
ossific deposit either congenital or acquired. In most cases 
it is the result of faulty assimilation, or it may arise from 
defective nourishment, either in the mother’s milk or other 
food substituted for it. But it may also arise from the 
successive shock of the system from too frequent or too cold 
bathing. And in delicate or poorly nourished infants it 
often happens that inconsiderate mothers or nurses prevent 
or retard the formation or coming forward of teeth by too 
frequent, too long continued or too cold bathing. To this 
end great care should be exercised by mothers or nurses. 


466 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


Convulsions of Infants. —Infants are peculiarly liable 
to convulsions. At that early period the brain is propor¬ 
tionally larger, the nervous organization more delicate, and 
the various evolutions through which it is passing render 
it more liable to spasmodic or convulsive attacks, than at a 
subsequent period of life. The usual causes are intestinal 
irritation from improper food, the irritation of teething; 
to which should also be added hereditary predisposition in 
some families, all the children being subject to convulsions 
on very slight provocation, while in others such an occur¬ 
rence is unknown. Where children are hot, feverish, either 
sleep too soundly, or are very restless, and start suddenly 
on dropping into a doze or at other times, the access of 
convulsions is imminent and demands attention. First, 
the occasioning cause should be removed. If the child is 
constipated, or if there is reason to suppose the irritation 
is occasioned by indigestible, bad, or irritating food, give 
at once a full, free injection of tepid water. Should it fail 
to relieve the symptoms, or to produce a full movement of 
the bowels, repeat it after half an hour, and even again, 
until the result is obtained. Meantime, if there is heat or 
fever, hot head and hands, dissolve six pellets of 
the No. One in as many spoonfuls of water, and of 
this give a spoonful every half hour for two or three 
hours, and then as the heat and fever abate, give every 
hour until relieved. Should there be not so much heat 
or fever, and the irritation of teething having been 
the cause, the No. Three, given as above, may be 
preferable to No. One. In case of a convulsion, but 
little can be done during the paroxysm; but, so 
soon as practicable, the feet and legs should be im¬ 
mersed in warm water for several minutes, and then 
carefully wiped dry and wrapped in a warm cloth, 
and a cloth wet with cold water applied to the head, and 
the injection before mentioned be administered. In some 
cases the No. One and the No. Three, prepared as 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DISEASES OF INFANTS. 46? 

above, may be given alternately, a spoonful every hour, 
with advantage, and especially when the convulsions have 
been repeated, or their premonitions continue. 

To Destroy a Predisposition to convulsions or prevent 
the development of epilepsy, the No. Thirty-three may 
be given, one pellet every night, for three days; and the 
same of No. Thirty-five each morning, and then every 
second night for some weeks, giving No. Thirty-five every 
morning. 

Atrophy or Wasting. —In cases where children do not 
seem to thrive, and become emaciated and wasted, the 
tissue becoming atrophied, and a well marked marasmus 
occurs, any of the remedies which meets these indications 
are efficient. Such a condition, indeed, very rarely hap¬ 
pens under the Homeopathic treatment. But should such 
a condition threaten, or have actually been developed, we 
should be guided in our choice of remedies by the indi¬ 
cations, thus: For enlarged abdomen, heat of the head, 
slow closing fontanelle, slow growth, give No. Thirty-five. 
When there is constipated habit, tardy, insufficient 
evacuations, deranged stomach or pale stools, give the No. 
Ten. If the glands become enlarged, with knots about 
the neck or under the arms, frequent boils, swellings, or 
tumors, give No. Twenty-three. If diarrhea or constant 
tendency to loose bowels is present, give No. Four. 
These remedies may usually be given in these cases, simply 
one pellet for infants three times per day, dry in the mouth. 


DISEASES OF VARIOUS ORGANS AND 
REGIONS. 


BHETJMATISM. 

Definition. — A febrile disorder, accompanied by 
acute inflammation of the white fibrous tissues,—ligaments, 
tendons, sbeatbs of tendons, aponeuroses, fasciae, etc.,—sur¬ 
rounding the joints, of which several are affected simulta¬ 
neously, or in succession. The local symptoms are very 
erratic; the skin of the affected part is covered with a 
copious, sour, sticky perspiration, containing lactic acid; and 
the blood has a large excess of fibrine, probably to the ex¬ 
tent of thrice the normal quantity. 

This very common, and sometimes quite obstinate dis¬ 
ease, manifests itself mostly in two forms—the acute or in¬ 
flammatory, and the chronic. 

Acute, or Inflammatory Rheumatism,— (Rheumatic Fever) 
is usually brought on by exposure to cold, rough or damp 
weather, and especially to fatigue or labor during such ex¬ 
posure; also from sitting or standing in cold, damp places, 
or from sitting in a draught; sleeping in damp sheets or 
remaining long in wet clothes; exposure of any parts of the 
body to cold and moisture when other parts of the body are 
covered; or exposure when in a perspiration. Cold probably 
excites an attack of acute rheumatism by arresting the 
Secretory functions of the skin, by means of which, in 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-DIS. OF VARIOUS ORGANS, ETC. 4G9 

health, morbid substances in the blood are often removed; 
and the functions of the skin being deranged, unhealthy 
principles accumulate in the blood, and rheumatism results. 
Mere cold, however, is not so much a cause of rheumatism 
as extreme atmospheric vicissitudes. Hence it is found 
that it does not prevail most in the coldest regions of the 
globe, but rather.in those climates, and during these seasons 
which are damp and changeable. There is probably, also 
a rheumatic diathesis or tendency, which may be inherited. 
Sometimes it appears to arise from the suppression of an 
eruption; or the retrocession of measles, rash, or chicken- 
pox; or the suppression of some discharge like gonorrhoea 
or dysentery. 

It generally commences with the usual signs of fever, 
associated with stiffness and lameness; chilliness and heat 
alternating; thirst and restlessness; coldness of the extremi¬ 
ties, and usually constipation. After twelve or twenty-four 
hours the fever becomes continuous, the skin hot and dry; 
pulse quick, often 110 to 120 per minute. The stiffness and 
pain in the joints becomes more decided, with acute suffer¬ 
ing, especially on every attempt to move. The affected 
parts are usually red, swollen and extremely painful to the 
touch Sometimes there is excessive pain without the red¬ 
ness or swelling: the pain is generally worse at night, and 
occasionally an acrid perspiration accompanies the disease. 

The larger joints of the extremities are usually the seat 
of the disease. It is rarely confined to one, and sometimes 
nearly all, either simultaneously or in turn are affected so 
that often the patient can scarcely move hand or foot.* 
Often the disease leaves one ankle, knee or wrist, and lo¬ 
cates upon another, leaving the former comparatively free. 
During the course of the disease, complications with the 
heait are liable to arise from the rheumatic process having 
invaded that organ, a circumstance always undesirable and 
sometimes quite dangerous. It is liable to occur during 


470 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


very severe attacks, in young persons; in women oftener 
than in men; in patients who have been previously weak¬ 
ened ; and in persons troubled with irritability or palpi¬ 
tation of the heart; and, also, when cold, chilling, or severe 
applications such as blisters, are made to the affected joint, 
under old-school treatment. When there is a remission 
of the pain in the joints, followed by anxiety, jerking, 
feeble or rapid pulse, and acute pain in the region of the 
heart, there is reason to apprehend such a transition. 

Treatment. —At the first symptoms of acute rheumatism , 
with soreness, lameness, and pain in the part, six pellets 
of No. Fifteen should be taken every hour, dissolved in a 
spoonful of water, and the patient should remain indoors, 
and keep quiet until relieved. If violent fever, heat and 
swelling of the part has already come on, as noticed above, 
indicating rheumatic fever, or a chill succeeded by heat, 
prepare No. One by dissolving twelve pellets in half a glass 
of water, of which give a large spoonful every hour for a 
day, and then prepare the No. Fifteen in the same man¬ 
ner, and take the two alternately, every two hours. These 
should be continued from day to day, until the disease is 
broken up, preparing the medicine fresh every morning. 
Sometimes applications of cloths wrung out of tepid water, 
and laid on the part, are very soothing. Cold water, how¬ 
ever, applied to the part is very liable to cause its falling 
upon the heart, and thus often ending with fatal results. 
Salves, ointments, etc., are useless. Humphreys’ Marvel 
Witch Hazel is a most valuable application for the in¬ 
flamed and swelled parts, and may be applied according to 
directions on each bottle. Arnica is often, but I think 
not so generally useful as Humphreys’ Marvel Witch 
Hazel. 

Should there be, during the course of the disease, pain 
in the region of the heart, oppression or anxiety, jerking, 
quick or irregular pulse, or other symptoms indicating a 
transition of the disease to the heart, the No. Thirty-two 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-DIS. OF VARIOUS ORGANS, ETC. 471 

is appropriate. Dissolve twelve pellets in six large spoons¬ 
ful of water, and give a spoonful of the solution every two 
hours, and this may be continued either alone if the disease 
has been somewhat subdued, or in alternation with No. 
One, if there is yet fever and heat; or in alternation with 
No. Fifteen, if there yet remains merely soreness, lame¬ 
ness, or stiffness of the part. All to be prepared in water, 
and given at intervals of two hours as above directed. 
Bedding in blankets greatly reduces the risk of inflam¬ 
mation of the heart, diminishes its intensity and danger 
when it does occur, and at the same time does not prolong 
the convalescence. 

Chronic Rheumatism— differs from the previous form, by 
the absence of the fever, redness, heat and swelling. In 
old cases, the affected limbs or joints loose their suppleness, 
and lameness and even permanent curvature or contraction 
results; and in some cases atrophy or emaciation of the 
muscles occurs. The causes are the same as in acute rheu¬ 
matism, and frequent attacks of the latter rarely fail to 
leave some form of chronic rheumatism as a result. 

Symptoms generally are: Lameness, stiffness, or soreness 
of some particular limb or joint, or of several joints, some¬ 
times manifested on first moving, or on exercise of the 
affected part, or again principally noticed when quiet. 
Usually the pains and the lameness are worse on changes 
of weather, and in rough, damp, windy weather, or on the 
approach of a storm. 

Treatment. —The No. Fifteen, six pellets at a time, 
and four times per day, before each meal and on going to 
rest at night, is the appropriate treatment for almost all 
forms of chronic rheumatism, or for old rheumatic pains in 
the shoulders, hips, back, chest, side or elsewhere. 

If it is associated, as is frequently the ease, with 
some degree of dyspepsia, weak stomach, or con¬ 
stipation, the No. Ten may be taken, six pellets at 


472 


Homeopathic mentor 


night, and the No. Fifteen as previously directed, before 

meals. 

Rheumatic patients should avoid eating red meats, acids 
and acid fruits, with the exception of lemon juice which 
can be taken freely. Tomatoes and strawberries are es- 
X3ecially harmful. Alcohol and sweets must also be avoided. 
Milk, eggs, and green vegetables should form the chief 
articles of diet. 

Torticollis.— (.Rheumatism of the neck ).—The muscles of 
the neck sometimes become seriously affected with rheu¬ 
matic lameness. The head is drawn to one side, or can be 
turned only slowly and with difficulty, the muscles on that 
side of the neck are lame and sore when pressed, and there 
is sometimes fever. It is usually occasioned by exposure 
to a draught of air, as when sitting near an open window 
when in perspiration; and is sometimes caused by a sudden 
jerk of the head. 

Treatment.— The No. One rarely fails to afford relief. 
Dissolve twelve pellets in six large spoonfuls of water, 
and of the solution give a spoonful every two hours. 
In rare cases the No. Fifteen may be used, but the No. 
One will usually afford prompt satisfaction. It is needless, 
to say that the neck should be carefully covered and pro¬ 
tected from draughts of cold air. 

Lumbago is confined to the small of the back and the 
loins, rarely extending upward towards the neck, but more 
frequently extending down to the hips. There is seldom 
fever or swelling, or even soreness on pressure, but the 
pain and lameness is very severe, often almost forbidding 
motion, or change of posture, as the slightest effort brings 
on a renewal of the pain. 

Treatment.—T he No. One usually affords prompt 
relief. Dissolve twelve pellets in six large spoonfuls of 
water, of this give a spoonful every hour, for the first six 
hours, and then prepare in a similar manner and take at 


DISEASE AND TREATAIENT.—DlS. OP VARIOUS ORGANS, ETC. 473 

intervals of two hours, until relief is obtained. Should 
there be any remaining stiffness or lameness, the alternate 
use of No. Ten and No. Fifteen, six pellets at a time, and 
four times per day, will promptly remedy the defect. 

Sciatic Rheumatism, or “ Sciatica” may be attended with 
some degree of fever, and so may approach the acute form; 
but is more commonly without fever or any considerable 
degree of heat of the part, and is hence more frequently 
chronic. 

It is characterized by pain, generally sharp, shooting and 
lancinating, though sometimes more dull and aching in the 
region of the hip, and frequently extending to the knee or 
the foot, following the course of the nerve of the affected 
gide. Sometimes it is a dull aching, and may affect only a 
portion of the limb, or a part of the nervous track men¬ 
tioned. The pain may be manifested during rest as well as 
during exercise or motion. It is apt to be tedious, and 
many persons suffer more or less from it for years in 
succession. 

Treatment.— The No. Fifteen is very generally 
successful. For the duller and more chronic forms, six 
pellets taken before each meal and on going to rest at 
night, will be found sufficient. Should there be violent 
paroxysms of pain, and especially if some heat or fever be 
associated, give the No. One in alternation. Dissolve 
twelve pellets of No. One in six large spoonsful of water, 
and the same of No. Fifteen in another glass, and from 
these give a spoonful every hour alternately, for six or 
eight hours, when the interval may be extended to two 
hours between the doses, and so continue until relief is 
afforded, when the treatment as for chronic cases may be 
adopted. 

Arthritis, — {Gout) is generally considered as a dyscrasia 
or peculiar habit of the body, whereby it is inclined to take 
on or assume a disease of a peculiar form, and when once 


474 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


developed, to render it very intractable of stubborn, and 
only slightly influenced by the ordinary methods of cure. 
Its manifestations are similar in form to those of rheuma¬ 
tism, and all the more obstinate cases of this latter disease, 
or when it is frequently repeated in the same individual, 
are supposed to be connected with a gouty diathesis or 
constitution. It is quite liable to be hereditary, but need 
not be necessarily so, as numerous cases are found where 
no such transmission is evident; nor is it necessarily the 
result of an indolent, luxurious mode of life, though its 
more violent manifestations are commonly due to such a 
style of living. 

The symptoms are usually extreme pain in the extremities, 
often, if not always, commencing at one of the great toes, 
and thence extending to the foot, ankle, and limb of the 
affected side. The pain is often extreme, if not insupport¬ 
able, with extreme sensitiveness of the affected part, which 
becomes swelled, red, and inflamed. Sometimes it flies 
from one joint to another, and may even affect the head, 
stomach, or other part, causing very grave symptoms in¬ 
deed. When the hands or other small joints have been 
often attacked by chronic gout, there will be deposits about 
the joints, which gradually or most frequently harden, 
causing enlargements, gouty concretions, and rendering the 
hands or fingers stiff, unwieldly, or even distorted. 

The Treatment is the same as for acute or chronic rheu¬ 
matism, aside from the fact that in gout, or rheumatic gout, 
the functions of the stomach and kidneys are almost in¬ 
variably involved; and hence the Number Ten may be 
profitable, and either as an intercurrent remedy, or in alter¬ 
nation with No. Fifteen. Usually No. One and No. 
Fifteen for acute attacks, and the latter with No. Ten in 
alternation for old, chronic cases, will accomplish as m-uch 
as can bo done under domestic management. 

Accessory Measures. —During an attack of gout, the 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DIS. OP V ARIOUS ORGANS, ETC. 475 

affected limb should be raised, so as to favor the free return 
of blood to the heart; the application of flannels wrung out 
of hot water, hot bread-and-water poultices, or spongio- 
piline, after immersion in hot water, often do good. In 
acute attacks, the patient should be restricted to farina¬ 
ceous diet—arrowroot, tapioca, sago, bread, etc.—and millq 
water, or toast-and-water, ad libitum. As the febrile symp¬ 
toms decline, a more generous diet may be gradually 
allowed; at the same time, the patient should resume daily 
moderate out-of-door exercise as early as he is able. 

Preventive Treatment.— 1. A well chosen diet. — This should 
include both animal and vegetable food; be adapted in qua¬ 
lity and quantity to the ability of the stomach to digest; and 
at the same time furnish sufficient nourishment out of 
which pure blood can be formed. Codfish, mutton, tender 
beef, fowl, and game may be eaten, salmon, veal, pork, 
cheese, and highly-seasoned dishes are unsuitable. The 
consumption of animal food should be moderate; and 
acidity guarded against by avoiding pastry, greasy or 
twice-cooked meat, raw vegetables, highly-seasoned food, 
and anything likely to lead the patient to eat more than is 
strictly moderate. The wines most likely to injure are 
port, sherry, and madeira. If wine be taken at all, good 
claret, free from sugar and acidity, is best. When gout 
attacks a patient early, entire abstinence from all alcoholic 
beverages is one of the most likely measures to check its 
future development; but aged persons, and others whose 
health has been much enfeebled, may be allowed a small 
quantity of stimulants, such as the particular circumstances 
of each case seem to justify. For, although a plan can be 
sketched out which may apply to the majority of cases of 
gout, still each case not only exhibits its own peculiarities, 
and becomes a separate study, but likewise demands, in 
certain respects, a separate treatment. 2. Healthy action of 
Vie skin should be promoted by bathing, warm clothing, 


476 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


rough towels, batli-brushes, etc., for much excrementitious 
matter is got rid of in this manner. Friction over the whole 
surface of the body is extremely useful when exercise cannot 
be taken. The patient should be well rubbed with a flesh¬ 
brush, or with the hands, twice a day. 3. Good habits .—A 
life of indolence should be exchanged for one of activity 
and usefulness. Exercise, not severe or exhausting, should 
be taken regularly. Walking, so as to secure an abundance 
of fresh air, must ever be considered the best exercise, but 
it may be conjoined with riding. Without sufficient exer¬ 
cise, probably every other measure will be unavailing. 
Early and regular hours should be observed, and severe or 
prolonged mental application avoided. In some cases, sub¬ 
sequent attacks may be warded off by removal to a warm 
and dry climate, during winter and spring. 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DIS. OF VARIOUS ORGANS, ETC. 477 


GENERAL DEBILITY 

General debility or physical exhaustion may be caused 
by taxing the physical powers beyond their endurance. 
It usually accompanies and is the result of nervous pros¬ 
tration. It may be the result of long continued illness 
where the convalescence is slow and prolonged. It is 
very often the result of malaria. That form of influenza 
commonly known as La Grippe or Grip is often followed 
by physical weakness amounting at times to extreme 
exhaustion. Ill nutrition and malassimilation from 
weakened digestive organs are prolific sources of general 
debility. Also Diarrhea, Leucorrhea and prolonged 
lactation. 

The symptoms of General Debility and physical exhaus¬ 
tion are too well known to require any detailed description. 
Languor, lassitude, weakness, lack of strength, dragging 
of the legs, inability to make any muscular or physical 
effort, such are the common conditions, 

Treatment. —In case of extreme general debility or 
physical exhaustion, after long continued illness, give one 
or two Tonic Tablets. As the patient gains in strength 
give two or three Tonic Tablets before each meal and 
upon retiring. The Tonic Tablets should be taken in 
every case of malaria and following every case of Grip. 


NERVOUS PROSTRATION, NEURASTHENIA 

The exigencies of modern life with its attendant stress 
and strain tend toward the development of Neurasthenia, 


478 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


commonly called Nervous Prostration. Few individuals 
escape its manifestations in some form during their lives. 
It varies in degree and intensity, from the slight symptoms 
of nervousness to the more profound and complete condition 
of nervous prostration. 

Causes. —It is beyond question that neurotic conditions 
exist in certain families and are transmitted from parents 
to children. It is a matter of daily observation that 
members of certain families show a tendency to the various 
forms of nervous disturbances than other families; are 
more emotional, temperamental, more often show evidence 
of nervous derangement and prostration. 

A person possessing a well balanced and well organized 
nervous system may eventually suffer from Neurasthenia 
or nervous prostration, through worry incidental to an 
active business life, or worry and care in domestic life. 
The strain of professional life among lawyers, doctors, 
clergymen and teachers, and especially the high pressure 
'energy of journalism add largely to the number of sufferers. 

Infectious diseases, especially epidemic influenza or Grip, 
excessive use of alcohol, tobacco or drugs, excesses of every 
description are predisposing causes. Functional derange¬ 
ment of the various secretive organs, and any drain or 
depletion of these organs finds its response in disorders of 
the nervous system. 

Symptoms. —The patient is restless, nervous or irritable, 
becomes depressed and despondent; takes a gloomy view 
of life, is a prey to anxiety, has a fear of death or loss of 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—Dig. OF VARIOUS ORGANS, ETC. 479 

property; fears that he is suffering from various forms of 
diseases, or that he may become insane. The impulse to¬ 
ward suicide is often tempting and almost overpowering. 
He sleeps poorly, with interrupted sleep or entire wakeful¬ 
ness; complains of backache, headache, dull in charactei 
and located at the back of the head. There is more or 
less of physical exhaustion, with heaviness and sensation 
of weakness, especially of the lower extremities, with 
dragging of the legs; the feet are cold and clammy with 
perspiration of the hands and feet, irritable bladder with 
frequent urination, functional weakness of the various 
organs, depressed functional activity, due to depletion by 
loss of fluids such as prolonged lactation in women. 
There is usually weakness of digestion with poor appetite, 
capricious or irregular, vertigo, trembling, and a feeling 
of compression over the chest and palpitation of the heart. 

Treatment. —In extreme cases of nervous prostration 
attended with physical exhaustion, absolute rest is essential. 
In milder cases gentle physical exercise, never pushed to 
the limit of endurance is very beneficial. In all cases 
plenty of outdoor fresh air, well ventilated rooms, especially 
the sleeping room and easily digested nourishing food, all 
the patient can digest and properly assimilate. Tea, coffee 
tobacco and spirits should be strictly forbidden. Ale or 
Brown Stout may be given where the stomach will tolerate 
them, and provided the nervous symptoms are not thereby 
exaggerated. 

It is difficult to lay down any hard and fast rules; each 
patient must be a law unto himself, and by experience 


m 


HOMEOE ATfHC MENTOR. 


determine what is injurious and what is beneficial. With 
extreme exhaustion port or sherry wine or a light wine 
may prove beneficial, and in other cases may increase the 
hearts irregular action, causing palpitation and other 
annoying symptoms. 

Give six pellets of No. Twenty-eight, four times a day, 
and when there is much physical exhaustion and loss of 
appetite with impaired digestion take two or three Tonic 
Tablets before each meal and before retiring for the night. 

SLEEP AND SLEEPLESSNESS. 

The precise number of hours required for the sleep of 
each individual daily can be subject to no fixed rule. It 
differs at different periods of life with the habits, occupa¬ 
tion and general health and nutrition of each individual. 
Some temperaments require more sleep than others, women 
almost always more than men, and children far more than 
either. The infant may profitably sleep eighteen of the 
twenty-four hours; young children may well sleep ten or 
twelve hours at night, and have an additional siesta during 
the day; and those that perform severe physical or mental 
labor, cannot well do with less than nine or ten hours 
daily. Those who are engaged in light physical or mental 
labor, will frequently find the wants of nature satisfied with 
only six or seven hours sleep. Some individuals of remark¬ 
able mental and physical endurance, in the midst of the 
greatest peril or excitement, seem to require but two or three 
hours of sleep in the twenty-four. But these are exceptional 
cases. Every individual should take so much of rest and 
sleep as is required for the restitution of his or her body, 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-DIS. OF VARIOUS ORGANS, ETC. 481 

strength, and recuperation from fatigue. If nature is long 
or systematically denied this, there will sooner or later 
come a terrible retribution, often in failing health, or some 
nervous disorder or disease of the heart. Several eminent 
literary men have fallen victims to disease of the heart, 
attributed solely to incessant mental occupation, carried 
persistently into the hours which should have been given 
to sleep. The use of tea or coffee best sustains the system 
and prevents the waste and wear incident to long watching 
and severe night work; tobacco may to some extent have 
a similar conservative effect; but none of them, or all, can 
more than palliate the serious ill effects of long-continued 
want of sleep. 

The night is the best time for sleep, and it is doubtless 
true that two hours sleep before midnight is worth as much 
as four hours after that period. The more nearly sleep can 
be taken to the hours of darkness, and the earlier we can 
arise after the morning light the better. From eight or 
nine o’clock at night, to four, five, or six in the morning, 
according to temperament, vocation and circumstances, 
are probably the best hours for repose. During the long 
warm days of summer, a fiesta of an hour in the early after¬ 
noon is for most persons of leisure as enjoyable as it is 
allowable, and for young children it is indispensable. 

Sleeplessness, — (Insomnia). — It not unfrequently occurs 
that persons are unduly wakeful; they either do not sleep 
soundly, or find it difficult to go to sleep; are easily waked 
after a short sleep, or their sleep is unrefreshing. Some¬ 
times, while there is an earnest longing, or a desire to 
sleep, there is a thronging of ideas and restless tossing, 
that wears away a good part of the night without sleep; or 
after finally falling to sleep, the slumber is but slight, and 
they arise unrefreshed, with the demands of the system un¬ 
satisfied. 

Such a condition has alwavs something of disease or 


482 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR 


undue excitement connected with it. The excessive use of 
tea or of coffee may produce it. Too intense or long con¬ 
tinued mental excitement; some forms of dyspepsia or 
gastric derangement; innervation of the system from in¬ 
sufficient nutrition, or a feverish excitement of the system 
and afflux of blood to the head; or chronic tendency of 
blood to the head, may have this condition of sleeplessness 
or undue wakefulness a3 a result. 

For Insomnia, Sleeplessness, Wakefulness, Restlessness 
and Nervousness.—Fullness or beating in the head, or 
red face, such as people of full habit are subject to, and 
from Indigestion. 

Number “40” Induces Repose, and Natural, Refreshing 
Sleep. 

No Narcotic, No Opiate, No Dope, No habit forming 
Drugs, Strictly Homeopathic. 

Treatment. —Take six pellets at bed time, or hourly, 
if wakeful during the night. A cracker or glass of milk 
at bed time, draws the blood from the head, accelerating 
the action of Number “40.” 

Nightmare. — (Incubus ).—See page 351. Aside from 
hygienic care, the use of the No. One or the No. Ten 
will be sufficient. No. One, six pellets morning, and at 
bed time, when the nightmare is attended with heat, 
fever, thirst, throbbing of arteries, or heat or fullness of 
head. No. Ten, six pellets, twice a day, the last dose at 
bedtime, when the trouble is due to sedentary habits, 
constipation or indulgence in wine. In chronic cases 
No. One in the morning, and No. Ten at night, six 
pellets at a dose. 

AFFECTIONS OF THE NOSE 

Swelling and Redness of the Nose, more particularly of 
the extremity, is common among persons addicted to the 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-DIS. OF VARIOUS ORGANS, ETC. 48& 

cvge of ardent spirits, and among luxurious livers. But it 
occasionally occurs among the temperate and frugal, causing 
an unsightly redness of the nose, and a swelling, or even 
thickening of the integument covering the organ, at once 
disagreeable and unsightly. The affection is apt to become 
chronic, increasing from year to year, unless removed by 
proper regimen and medication. 

Treatment. —Whether the difficulty has been occasioned 
by the free use of stimulants, or a luxurious mode of life or 
not, it is evident that this should be corrected, and a frugal 
diet free from exciting or stimulating food, and absence 
from stimulants be enjoined. The Number Tllirty- 
Five may be taken, six pellets each morning, and the same 
of No. Fourteen at night. This may be continued until 
the redness and swelling are removed. 

Ulceration of the Nose. —The nose, especially the in¬ 
ternal nostril, becomes occasionally the seat of frequently 
recurring ulcerations. The lining membrane becomes sore, 
ulcerated, crusts form from time to time, and become de¬ 
tached with frequent bleeding. 

Treatment. —No. TIlirty-Five and No. Fourteen are 
curative, and may be used, six pellets morning and at night 
in alternation, as in case of redness and swelling of the 
nose. 

NoseBleed. — ( Nasal Hemorrhage). —Bleeding from the 
nose may in some cases be not only disagreeable, but even 
dangerous. When it is but slight, occurring as it often 
does in children, or plethoric adults, and attended with 
fullness and heat of the head, to which the bleeding affords 
relief, it may be considered almost salutary, and need not 
be interfered with. But when it occurs in the course of 
low fevers, consumption, or other debilitating disease; or 
when it is frequently repeated from apparently slight arwt 
insufficient causes, or when it is severe and prostrating, it 
should demand attention. 


484 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


Treatment. —Sometimes merely extending the arm and 
hand of the side upon which the bleeding occurs, upwards 
over the head, will arrest the bleeding. The application 
of Humphreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel rarely fails, even 
in the worst cases. Wet a linen or cotton rag with 
Humphreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel folded one or more 
times, and lay over the nose, covering it from the eyebrows 
down, and keep this wet with the same, and take ten drops 
in a spoonful of water every fifteen minutes, until relieved. 
In extreme cases Humphreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel may 
be injected into the nostril with a small syringe, or the 
nostril may be plugged with lint wet with the same. 

If Humphreys’ Marvel Witch Hazel is not at hand, 
cold water may be applied to the bridge of the nose, and 
six pellets of No. One may be given in a spoonful of 
water, and repeated as above every quarter or half hour. 

When persons, especially children or young girls, are 
subject to frequent recurrence of nose-bleed, the use of No. 
Eleven, six pellets, taken morning and night, will correct 
the evil. 


SWEATING OF THE FEET. 

Some persons are habitually subject to perspiration of 
the feet; sometimes excessive in quantity, but more com¬ 
monly rank or offensive. It is not always permanently re¬ 
moved by bathing, though this is of course important, 
but depends upon a morbid condition of the sebaceous 
glands and follicles, and is a proper subject of medical 
treatment. 

It will be removed by the use of the No. Twenty-two, 
of which six pellets may be taken at night and morning, 
which may be continued at the discretion of the patient. 
It is sometimes wonderful, how a few doses of the appro¬ 
priate remedy will remove sn inconvenience of years 
standing. 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-DIS. OF VARIOUS ORGANS, ETC. 485 


DROPSY, GENERAL AND LOCAL.— (Anasarca, 
(Edema, etc.). 

Definitions. —A serous or watery accumulation in the 
ireolar tissue, more or less general throughout the body,/ 
with or without effusion into the serous cavities. ' 

In itself it is less a disease than a result or product of 
some diseased condition of the organs or tissues involved. 
As a consequence, a larger portion of fluid is secreted or 
deposited than is taken up, resulting in an accumulation of 
fluid, or dropsy. The symptoms, or manifestations, will vary 
with the condition of the organs involved, the location and 
quantity of the fluid; and almost invariably it will be found 
that the functions of the skin and kidneys, the usual 
emunctories of the body, have become impaired, and that a 
cure will be effected by their increased activity. 

Dropsy is of two distinct varieties; for, besides its occur¬ 
rence in the meshes of the loose tissue beneath the skin, it 
may take place as a local dropsy in any of the natural cavi¬ 
ties or sacs of the body, and is named according to the 
parts involved. If the accumulation occur in the ventricles 
of the brain, it is called hydrocephalus; if in the membrane 
that lines the surface of the lungs, hydrothorax; if in the 
membrane of the heart, hydropericardiunr, if in the mem¬ 
brane of the intestines, ascites; if in the serous sacs of the 
joints, hydrops articidorum; if in that of the testicles, hydro¬ 
cele. 

Character of the Swellings. —Dropsical SAvellings are 
soft, inelastic, diffused, and leave for some time the inden¬ 
tation made by the pressure of a finger. In chronic.cases, 
and when the oedema is very great, the skin becomes 
smooth, glassy, and of a dull-red or purple color; and where 
the skin is less elastic, as over the tibia, it becomes livid or 
blackish, and troublesome, even gangrenous, or sloughs mav 


486 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


Accessory Treatment. —In acute dropsy, the diet should 
be similar to that in acute fever; in chronic dropsy, patients 
require nourishing diet, but on account of the extreme 
feebleness commonly present, only easily digestible food 
should be taken. To allay burning thirst, cold water is the 
best beverage; but any other that the patient desires, if not 
positively injurious, may be taken. Water is a real resto¬ 
rative, for it increases the amount of fluids excreted to an 
extent greater than its own bulk; it also tends to improve 
the appetite and strengthen the pulse, while it diminishes 
the dropsical collections. It will thus be seen that the 
common notion that drinking water increases dropsy is 
quite erroneous. 

Warm baths for promoting perspiration, small doses of 
Hollands, tapping, and other palliative measures may some¬ 
times be necessary; but the propriety of such means can 
only be decided by the circumstances of each individual 
case. 

Anasarca. —( General Dropsy). —Symptoms are: An cede- 
matous swelling of the surface of the body and limbs, com¬ 
mencing first on the most depending portions ot the feet 
and legs, and then gradually ascending to the abdomen, 
hands, face, and other portions of the body. The surface 
is pale and cold, has a doughy feel, and pits on pressure 
The secretions become scanty, urine scanty, high-colored* 
skin dry and bowels confined. Added to these may be 
symptoms arising from the condition of the organs and 
tissues primarily involved. It may arise from various 
causes, among which are prominently—disease or defective 
action of the kidneys; the localization of the poison of scar¬ 
latina; disease of the liver or spleen; and the use of various 
drugs employed in the treatment of Intermittent Fever, as 
arsenic, quinine, etc. 

Treatment. —The use of the Number Twenty-five 
will be the appropriate remedy in this form of dropsy, and 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-DIS. OF VARIOUS ORGANS, ETC. 487 

may be given, according to tl urgency of the case, six 
pellets at a time, dissolved in water, and repeated three 
times per day for slight cases, or every two hours in the 
more severe ones. 

Dropsical patients require a warm, dry, uniform tem¬ 
perature, and an elevated location if obtainable, with mild, 
easily-digested food, and the bowels in a free if not relaxed 
condition. 

Hydrothorax.— (Dropsy of the Chest ).—Is one of the most 
difficult and unmanageable forms of this disease, occurring 
mostly in elderly people, and often connected with disease 
of the heart, or protracted pleuritic or pulmonary inflam¬ 
mations. The symptoms are: Difficult, anxious, labored 
respiration, worse when lying down, or inability to recline, 
(the head must be kept elevated), blueness or pallid face and 
lips; starting up in affright on dropping to sleep with more 
rapid breathing, as if in danger of suffocation; scanty se¬ 
cretions and gradual swelling of the feet and abdomen. 

The Treatment is more difficult and the result uncertain. 
The No. Twenty-five may be given, six pellets dissolved 
in water and repeated every three hours. In case 
of violent paroxysms of oppression, the No. One may 
be given, a like quantity in water, and repeated every hour 
between the doses of No. Twenty-five, as an inter current 
remedy, until the paroxysm has subsided. 

In case the dropsy of the chest is complicated with dis¬ 
ease of the heart, indicated by irregular or labored action 
of the heart, the No. Thirty-two may be given in alter¬ 
nation with No. Twenty-five, six pellets every three hours. 
Diet and regimen as for general dropsy. 

Ascites, —{Dropsy of the Abdomen ),—is manifested by 
gradual enlargement of the abdomen, sometimes com¬ 
mencing almost imperceptibly and at others with greater 
rapidity. The swelling usually commences in the vicinity 
of the stomach, and thence extends over the entire abdomen. 


488 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


There is, with the enlargement, difficulty of breathing on 
exercise; sallow complexion; dry skin; scanty secretions; 
high-colored urine. There is also a feeling of languor and 
debility, and stiffness when attempting to bend the body, 
It may arise from peritoneal inflammation, or from enlarge¬ 
ment and disease of the liver, or from some constitutional 
disturbance. 

The Treatment is the same as for general dropsy, six 
pellets of No. Twenty-Five, and given at intervals of 
two or three hours, according to the urgency of the case. 
Diet and regimen as for general dropsy. 

INTESTINAL WORMS. 

The human system, in common with the entire animal 
kingdom, is subject to numerous parasites, or entozia. These 
have their abode either upon the surface, or along the in¬ 
testinal tract, or within the cavities, or even in the more 
solid substances or muscles of the body. They are found 
in all animals and fish, as well as the human species—those 
in apparent health as well as those that are sick—and the 
part they play in the economy of nature is confessedly ob¬ 
scure. It is generally conceded that it is only in peculiar 
or morbid conditions, or under a course of diet and regimen 
unfavorable to health, that they multiply or increase to 
such an extent as to become of themselves a source of irri¬ 
tation and disease. It is under these conditions that In¬ 
testinal Worms become the subject of medical treatment 

The more important varieties of intestinal worms are: 

First —The seat worm , or thread worm , usually called 
acarus. This parasite is from a third to half an inch in 
length, white, slender and very active. They inhabit prin¬ 
cipally the lower intestine and rectum. They are more 
common in children than in grown persons, though the 
\pAter arc bv no means exempt from them. It is net known 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.—DIS. OP VARIOUS ORGANS, ETC. 4§9 

Low tliese worms originate, since they have even been 
known in infants at birth. But one fact is well ascertained: 
that children who live mostly on farinaceous food are most 
subject to them. 

Symptoms.— By their constant and active motions they 
cause a tickling and irritation in the anus, which obliges 
the child or patient to scratch and rub the part; as a con¬ 
sequence of which we frequently find a catarrhal inflam¬ 
mation of the mucus membrane of the anus or even a 
mucus discharge from the part; also a swelling of the veins 
distributed over the locality, ana not unfrequently straining 
or tenesmus. From the tendency of these seat-worms to 
travel, in order to deposit their larve or eggs, they some¬ 
times, in the case of females, enter and irritate the vagina; 
or, in males may occupy the folds of the prepuce, in either 
case causing intolerable itching and irritation, and occa¬ 
sionally inducing the bad habit of masturbation. 

Aside from the medical hints given further on, great care 
should be taken with children in whom they are discovered, 
or when from the actions of the child their presence may 
be suspected, to prevent their accumulation and to remove 
them. Cleanliness, frequent bathing of the parts, injections 
of cold water, are generally sufficient to remove the para¬ 
sites and relieve the irritation. Should it be necessary to 
remove them from the rectum, this may be readily and 
conveniently done by injecting an ounce of olive oil , with 
which the worms will usually come away in a mass. 

Should the child be restless at night or feverish from the 
irritation occasioned by them, a dose of two or three pellets 
of No. One will be sufficient to subdue it. 

For the permanent eradication of these seat-worms from 
the system, give three pellets of No. Two, morning and 
noon, and the same quantity of No. Ten at night, and 
six pellets for adults; and continue this course until the 
object is attained. 


4 % 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


Sbcond— The Round Worm (Ascaris Lumbricoides) is the 
next species more commonly met with. It is of cylindrical 
form, pointed at both ends, from six to nine or even twelve 
inches in length, and of the thickness of a goose quill, thus 
resembling somewhat the common earth-worm. Its body, 
however, is half transparent, and of a whitish, yellowish, oi 
even brownish hue. They are of both sexes, and the fe 
males are more numerous than the males. 

This worm principally inhabits the small intestines, but 
it is not unfrequently found in the stomach, and from thence 
sometimes mounts along up the oesophagus into the throat 
and mouth, or nose. Attacks of violent, incessant, spas¬ 
modic cough are often produced by the attempted passage 
of a worm into the pharynx. Doubtless, other grave dis¬ 
turbances or morbid conditions are produced, from the 
presence of these vermin in the neighboring parts. 

Symptoms. —These worm* may exist in considerable num¬ 
bers without causing any seriou* disturbance. But in the 
majority of cases they occasion gripings in the abdomen; en¬ 
larged or hard, prominent abdomen; mucus diarrhoea; occasional 
vomiting; irregular or capricious appetite. There are also 
from time to time sympathetic symptoms, such as itching oj 
the nose, or of the anus or genitals; increased flow of saliva; 
restless sleep; with frequent starting or grating of the teeth. 
Beside the above more decided symptoms indicating the 
presence of worms, authors have enumerated the following 
as manifestations of the worm cachexy: Palor and sickly 
appearance of the countenance, and occasional flushing of 
the cheeks; bluish circles under the eyes; dilated pupils; 
headache or vertigo; voracity or irregular appetite; offen¬ 
sive or fetid breath; acrid eructations; occasional nausea or 
vomiting; foul or coated tongue; tensive fulness of the ab¬ 
domen, and gnawing or burning in particular parts of the 
intestines; hard, tumid abdomen; great thirst; discharge of 
Eiucus from the bladder, rectum or vagina; slight febrile 


OKSEASE AND TREATMENT.—DIS. OF VARIOUS ORGANS, ETC. 491 


symptoms, or erratic remitting fever; nocturnal wakefulness, 
with low spirits and irritability of temper. We occasionally 
notice an inflammatory redness of the nostrils, with great 
disposition in children for picking or boring into the nose; 
and sudden screaming on awaking, or grating of the teeth 
in sleep, and involuntary flow of saliva during sleep; also at 
times, and in sensitive subjects, spasmodic or even convul¬ 
sive attacks. 

These symptoms, indicating the presence of worms, are 
largely influenced by the regimen and diet of the patient, 
and even by the season of the year and the lunar phases. 
Such articles of diet as milk, sugar, preserves, candies and 
pastry, and sometimes pungent salted food, ham, cheese, 
etc., produce an aggravation. The leucoj)hlegmatic habit 
appears to favor their production, and the female more than 
the male sex. 

Third —The common Tape Worm (Tenia Solium). It is 
omy rarely met with in this country. It consists of a head 
not larger than a pin’s head, in which there are four suck¬ 
ing cups and their armature; a neck , which is an inch or 
more in length, very slender and without joints; and the 
body, consisting of a long row of flat, ribbon-like segments, 
each of which is rectangular in shape and increasing in size 
towards the caudal extremity. These segments have each 
the male and female organ, and at the caudal extremity the 
ripe eggs. There may be several hundred of them, each 
half or three quarters of an inch in length, and the entire 
animal may measure several yards. From time to time, 
the lower segments or joints, as they are termed, ripen, and 
are pushed off, and appear in the evacuations; and these 
eggs, being taken by another organism (the hog), form in 
its organism grubs; and these again taken into the human 
system by a subsequent metamorphosis become the original 
Tcenia in the human subject It rarely happens that more 
than one of these unwelcome guests are found in the human 


192 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


intestines at the same time, yet there are cases on record 
where two or more have simultaneously existed in the same 
person. They are usually found in those regions where 
people are accustomed to eat raw or not well cooked pork, 
or sometimes dried or jerked beef. 

The symptoms of Tope Worm are all equivocal, unless the 
segments or joints of the worm itself are discovered in the 
discharges. Some individuals experience not the slightest 
inconvenience from it. Others complain of severe pain in 
the stomach; nausea; vomiting; ravenous hunger, even to 
fainting. The abdomen is sometimes bloated, sometimes 
contracted. In some cases there is diarrhoea, in others 
constipation. Among the sympathetic symptoms are: itch¬ 
ing of the nose; vertigo or dizziness; getting dark before 
the eyes; noises in the ears; palpitation of the neart. These 
symptoms are ameliorated in most cases by the use of cer¬ 
tain kinds of food, such as milk, eggs, mild soups and meat 
not spiced; while they are produced or aggravated by the 
Use of acids or sour things, especially pickles, spiced with 
vinegar and pepper, smoked herring, horse radish, cran¬ 
berries, strawberries, etc. Sometimes, after eating these 
latter substances, segments of the worm are discharged, and 
the diagnosis thus established. 

For the treatment and permanent removal of the Tape 
Worm the amateur practitioner will be able to do but little. 
Fortunately, these cases are rare iu this country; and where 
the patient is living wisely, and constantly using appropriate 
Homeopathic medicine for any occasion that may arise, the 
Tape Worm will not be troublesome. Practitioners use 
with success Kousso, or the flowers of the Bray era. Anthel 
mintica , an infusion of two drachms in a tumbler full of 
water, and letting it stand over night, strain off, and, after 
taking a cup of coffee to prevent nausea, take half the por¬ 
tion and the remainder half an hour later. The parasite is 
often carried off after a few hours. The use of large quan- 


DISEASE AND TREATMENT.-DIS. OF VARIOUS ORGANS, ETC. 493 

titles of pumpldn seed tea, or of the slippery elm in form of 
a tea, or by chewing the bark, is often effectual in stupi- 
fying and expelling the animal. 

General Treatment.— Fever is one of the most common 
and the most urgent symptoms of verminous irritation, and 
is usually the more violent in proportion as the worms are 
higher up in the intestinal track. The fever is characterized 
by its unsteady character, at times becoming quite violent 
with red face, or one cheek red and the other pale; white 
or pale lips or around the mouth; quick pulse; heat of the 
surface and restless tossing and anxiety; startings on going 
to sleep, indicating a tendency to convulsions, or even con¬ 
vulsive attacks. It will be generally found on inquiry that 
the attack of fever has been provoked by some grave error 
in diet, or exposure, or both—commonly the eating of cake, 
candy, sweet meats, raisins or other pernicious articles of 
food, has been sufficient to derange the stomach—to which 
the irritation of the worms was soon added. 

For such an attack of fever , dissolve at once twelve pellets 
of No. One in as many teaspoonfuls of water, of which give 
a spoonful every hour, until four or five doses have been 
given; then prepare of No. Two in the same manner, and 
give of the two, in alternation, at intervals of an hour, 
until the fever has abated, when the intervals may be 
prolonged to two or three hours. 

Should the fever be quite high, and there he twitchings , 
or startings, or great nervous excitement, rendering the 
danger of convulsions imminent, lose no time in giving a 
full enema of warm water, so as to secure a free movement 
of the bowels, and even repeat it, if necessary. 

After the storm has passed over, and the fever been 
allayed, a dose of two pellets of No. Ten, for children, 
given night and morning, will best restore the normal state 
of the digestion. 


494 


HOMEOPATHIC MENTOR. 


For vague, uneasy or colic pains in the bowels, arising 
from the presence of worms, the use of the No. Two, 
given to children, two or three pellets, four times per day, 
will be sufficient. Should it have become worse or com¬ 
plicated by the use of indigestible food, the No. Five may 
be given instead of No. Two, in the same manner. 

For the permanent eradication of worms from the system 
the use of No. Two, giving three pellets, four times per 
day, always before meals, and on going to rest, will be 
sufficient. If, as in many cases, there is imperfect 
digestion, or some degree of dyspepsia, the end will be more 
readily obtained by giving the No. Two, for children two 
pellets before meals, and a like dose of No. Ten on going 
to rest at night. 

The Diet in children affected with worms is important. 
They should not be constantly eating, always ‘ 1 having a 
piece in the hand. ” Let them have regular meals, and eat 
at meal time; rarely except at meals, so that the digestive 
organs may have rest. Give the child plain, wholesome 
diet, meat once per day, no pastry, pies, cakes, sweetmeats, 
raisins or candies, or these as rare and seldom as possible. 
Under such treatment and management the trouble from 
worms will be very slight indeed. 


Practical Hints 


in using 


Humphreys’ 

Homeopathic Remedies 


No. 1 
for 


! 


Fevers, Congestions and Inflammations; 
Heat, Pain; 


For Inflammation and Congestion of the Head; Inflam¬ 
mation of the Eyes; Inflammation of the Throat, or 
Quinsy, alone, or in alternation with No. 34; or Inflam¬ 
mation of the Chest; Inflammation of the Liver and of 
the Bowels; Fevers of Children; Measles; Inflammatory, 
Bilious, or Gastric Fever; Effects of being Over-heated; 
Violent Throbbing Headaches. The first stage of any 
inflammatory disease or Fever, Measles, Croup, Mumps, 
Cough, or Cold or Sore Throat, calls for No. 1. 



Worm Diseases, Worm Fevers, 
Worm Colic 


For Itching of the Anus, or Wetting the Bed from 
Worms; Irregular or Capricious Appetite, or Emaciation 
from Worms; Long Round Worms; Pin Worms. 



Infants Diseases, Sleeplessness, Colic 
and Crying of Infants 


Or young Children such as Restlessness; Irritation and 
Congestion from Teething and Feebleness of Infants; 
Irregular Teething. 


496 


PRACTICAL HINTS IN USING THE REMEDIES 


No. 4 
for 


! 


Diarrhea or Loose Bowels, 
Summer Complaint or Cholera Infantum 


For Thin, Loose, Yellowish, Greenish or Watery Stools; 
Diarrhea from Indigestible Food; Diarrhea from the use 
of Fruit; Diarrhea from Traveling or Change of Water; 
Painful Diarrhea; Chronic Diarrhea or Loose Bowels in 
Children or Adults. 



Dysentery, Colic, Painful or 
Bloody Diarrhea 


For Fall Dysentery or Bloody Flux; Slimy, Scanty 
Mucus; Greenish and Bloody Stools, attended with violent 
Colic or Straining and Tenesmus; Painful Diarrhea; 
Colic; Bilious Colic; Hemorrhoidal Colic. 



Cholera Morbus; Nausea 
and Vomiting 


For Sickness at the Stomach; Vomiting with Diarrhea; 
Thin, Loose, Urgent or Rice-Water Stools, with Vomiting, 
Coldness, Paleness, Blue Lips and Cramps; Morning 
Sickness. 



Coughs, Colds, Bronchitis 


For Cough with Pain and Stitches in Side or Breast; 
Cough with Pain or Soreness in the Throat and Bronchia; 
Hoarseness or loss of Voice in Clergymen and public 
speakers; given after or in alternation with No. 1. 
Chronic Bronchitis or Laryngitis, with Cough, Hoarse¬ 
ness, Loss of Voice or Weak Voice; Scanty Expectoration. 
Often used in alternation with No. 1, especially if there 
is heat or fever. 


PRACTICAL HINTS IN USING THE REMEDIES 


497 


No. 8 

for 


I 


Neuralgia, Toothache, Faceache, 
Nervous Pains 


For Toothache in Sound Teeth, or in Old Decayed 
Teeth; Toothache in Children; Faceache; Tic Douloureux; 
Swelled Face; Darting, Sharp or Stinging Pains; Neural¬ 
gic Pains, Old Neuralgia. 

No. 9 / Headaches, Vertigo, Sick Headaches, 
for f Congestion to the Head 

For Bilious Headaches; Nervous Headaches and Sick- 
Headaches, with Nausea and Vomiting; Congestive Head¬ 
aches; also No. 1; Vertigo or Dizziness; Swimming of 
the Head; Heat, Heaviness or Fullness of the Head; also 
No. 1. Often used in alternation with No. 1, for 
Congestive Headaches, or with No. 10 for Bilious 
Headaches. 



Dyspepsia, Indigestion and 
Bilious Complaints 


For Weak Stomach; rising of Food; Water Brash, 
Coated Tongue, Loss of Appetite, Loathing of Food; 
Scanty, Knotty, Small, Hard, Dry or Insufficient Stools, 
Biliousness, Yellow or Earthy Complextion; Bad Taste in 
the Mouth; No Appetite, Drowsiness, and Costive Bowels, 
Acid Stomach. Everything eaten becomes Sour; Old 
Chronic Dyspepsia, when everything disagrees; Headache 
from Indigestion; Flatulence and Bloating of the 
Abdomen after eating. 

No. Ilf Suppressed Menses; Delaying, Scanty 

for f or Painful Menses 

For Tardy or Late-appearing Menses; Suppressed or 
Obstructed Menses, from cold, fright, weakness or morbid 
cause; too scanty, too Pale, or Colorless Menses; Green 
Sickness or Chlorosis; Headache or Colic Pains during the 
Menses; Intermitting or Irregular Menses; Leucorrhea, 
with Scanty or Delayed Menses. 


498 


PRACTICAL niNTS IN USING THE REMEDIES 


No. 12 / Whites or Leucorrhea; Too 

for ( Profuse Menses 

For yellowish, thick, offensive or corrosive discharge; 
Menses too soon and too long continued; too profuse and 
debilitating Menses; Constant Bearing Down; Old Debil¬ 
itating Leucorrhea. 

No. 13 ( Croup; Hoarse Cough, 

for 1 Oppressed Breathing 

For Hoarse, Croupy Cough; Inflammatory Croup; 
Spasmodic Croup, with quick Pulse, Hot Skin, Difficult, 
Labored Breathing and Hoarse Cough; Laryngitis, with 
hoarseness, Pain in the Throat, Painful Cough and Scanty 
Expectoration; Loss of Voice. 

No. 14 ( Eczema, Eruptions, Salt Rheum, 
for i Acne, Ulcers, Erysipelas 

With Hot, Smooth, Swelled Skin or Blisters; Salt 
Rheum or Rough, Scaly, Chapped Eruption on the Hands 
or other parts; Pimples or Blotches on the Face; Prickly 
Heat; Nettle Rash, like Stings of Insects; Scald Head. 

No. 15/ Rheumatism; Lameness, Stiffness 

for ) and Soreness 

For Acute Rheumatism, with Painful, Hot Swelling of 
the part; Chronic Rheumatism with Lameness, Stiffness 
and Soreness of the part; Sciatic Rheumatism, with pain 
in the Hip, Knee or Leg of the affected side; Lumbago, 
or pain across the Loins or Back; Old Rheumatic Pains or 
Lameness. In alternation with No. 1, for acute form; 
and in alternation with No. 10 for Chronic Rheumatism. 


No. 16) 
for ) 


Malaria, Fever and Ague 


For Dumb Ague, Intermitting Fever, Malarial Fevers; 
Effects of Malaria; Old Suppressed Agues. 


PRACTICAL HINTS IN USING THE REMEDIES 


499 


No. 17/ Piles and Hemorrhoids, Blind or 
for ) Bleeding, Internal or External 

With Fullness, Itching and Burning; Inflamed, Hot, 
Burning; Sore Tumors around the Rectum; Falling of the 
Rectum; Itching of the Anus. Apply Humphreys’ Witch 
Hazel Ointment (Comp.) externally. 

No. 18) Sore Eyes; Old Chronic, 

for ^ Sore Inflamed or Weak Eyes 

With Heat, Redness, Scalding Tears, and Dread of 
Light; Painful, Red, Inflamed Eyelids, with constant 
secretion of Mucus; Acute Inflamed Eyes or Eyelids. 
Also for Easy Fatigue of the Eyes, from reading or effort; 
Intolerance of Light. 

No. 19/ Catarrh, Dry or Flowing, Recent 
for ^ or Chronic, Influenza 

For Mucus Discharges from the Nose; Acute Catarrh, 
with flow of Scalding Mucus, Tears and Sneezing; Old 
Chronic Catarrhs, with profuse discharge of Thick, some¬ 
times Offensive Mucus, Obstructed Nose, and often Loss 
of Taste or Smell; Chronic Cold in the Head; Catarrh of 
Children; Offensive Breath with Catarrh, Cough, with 
Profuse discharge from the Nose and Copious Expectora¬ 
tion; Loose Catarrhal Cough in Children; Soreness, or Dry 
Crusts forming in the Nose, with Dry or Moist Catarrh. 

No. 20 l Whooping-Cough, Irritating, Spasmodic 
for ( and Convulsive Coughs 

Give early to arrest the development of the cough; or 
later to allay the irritation and moderate the cough. 

No. 21 } Asthma, Difficult Breathing, 

for f Cough and Expectoration 

For Old Chronic Asthma, with attacks of Oppressed, 
Labored, Difficult Breathing. Cough and Expectoration; 
Dry Asthma; Humid Asthma; Stridulous or Sighing 
Respiration. 


500 


PRACTICAL HINTS IN USING THE REMEDIES 


No. 22 
for 


Ear Discharges, Earache, 
Diseases of the Ear 


For Discharges from the Ear; in consequence of 
Measles, Scarlatina or other diseases; Inflammation of the 
Internal Ear- Old Offensive Discharges from the Ear. 



Enlarged Glands or Tonsils 


For Enlarged or Inflamed Glands under the Jaw, 
around the Neck or under the Arm-pits; Itching and 
Burning of the Legs. 

No. 24 I Tonic Tablets for General Debility; 


for 


A General Tonic 


For Loss of Appetite, Impaired or Weak Digestion; 
Physical and Nervous Weakness; Want of Strength, 
Lassitude, Tired, Weary Feeling, even on waking; Easy 
Fatigue; Sweat on going to Sleep; Debility, the result of 
severe illness or drain upon the system; Want of Tone or 
Iron in the Blood. A valuable remedy for persons under 
severe mental or physical strain, or over-work, or the 
debility resulting from it. 

No. 25 f Dropsy, Fluid Accumulations with 
for f Scanty Secretions 

For Anasarca or General Dropsy; Dropsy of the Ab¬ 
domen; Dropsy of the Chest, Heart or Head; Dropsy, 
with Tumid, Doughy Swellings and Scanty Secretions; 
Dropsical Swelling of Feet or Legs. 

No. 26 / Nausea, Vomiting and Sickness from Riding 
for ( in Carriage, on Railroads, in Automobiles 

For Headache from Carriage or Car Riding; Sea-Sickness. 


PRACTICAL HINTS IN USING THE REMEDIES 


501 


No. 27 f Disorders of the Kidney and Urinary Sys- 

for C tem; Painful, Retarded, Scanty Urination 

For Catarrh of the Bladder, in alternation with the 
No. 30; Sand and Unhealthy Deposits in the Urine; 
Thick, Turbid, Frothy Urine, filled with mucus and 
brick-dust deposits; Too Frequent Discharge of Urine; 
Nightly Enuresis; Pain in the region of the Kidney and 
Bladder; Difficult, Slow, Interrupted and Insufficient Dis¬ 
charge in old people; Bloody Urine or mixed with blood. 
Compare also No. 30. 

Nervous Prostration or Neurasthenia 

For a general condition of Neurasthenia or Nervous Pros¬ 
tration, want of energy, low spirits with backache, head¬ 
ache, etc. Lack of tone of the nervous system with 
sluggishness of the mind; difficult mental concentration; 
absent mindness; extreme nervous condition from anxiety, 
worry, business strain, over-study, etc. 

§ 5 f" N.B.—Packages of Three Flasks of Pills and 
One Flask of Powder and One of Tonic Tablets— 
Powder to be taken each morning while the pills are taken 
noon and night, and the Tonic Tablets taken before 
each meal. 

No. 29 r Sore Mouth or Canker; 

for [ Ulcerated Lips 

For Fever Blisters, Cold Sores on the Lips; Sore Mouth 
or Canker in adults, children or infants; Nursing Sore 
Mouth; Morning Sickness of expectant Women; In¬ 
digestion; Ulceration or Canker of the Mouth. 

No. 30 ( Diseases of the Urinary Organs; 

for \ Urinary Incontinence 

For Frequent, Painful or Scalding Urination; Inability 
to retain the Urine; Catarrh of the Bladder; in alternation 
with No. 27; Frequent Scalding Urination, with Mucus 


No. 28 ) 
for j 


502 


PRACTICAL HINTS IN USING THE REMEDIES 


Discharge; Urine loaded with Mucus; Nightly Wetting-the- 
Bed in children; Nocturnal Urinary Incontinence. No. 
30 is to the bladder and passages what No. 27 is to the 
kidneys—hence so often used in connection. 

No. 31 / Painful Menstruation; Spasms, 

for f Hysteria, Pruritus 

For Menstruation with Painful Bearing Down; Menses, 
with Painful, Pressive, Cutting, Griping, and even 
Spasms; Too Profuse Menses, with Pain and Distress; 
Itching and Burning Irritation of the Organs; Laughing, 
Crying, Hysterical Movements, or Cramps at the monthly 
period; Too Early and Too Long-continued Menses; 
Leucorrhea, like white of eggs. 

No. 32 ( Disorders of the Heart, Palpitations, 
for f Flushes; Irregularities 

Occurring at the Critical Age of Women, on Change of 
Life; Flushes of Heat; Irregular Menses, Wanting or Too 
Soon, Too Copious and Too Long, with great prostration, 
nervous and wakeful at the turn of life; palpitation of the 
Heart; Irregular or Tumultuous Beating of the Heart; 
Violent Throbbing or Irregular Beating of the Heart; 
Painful Spasms through the Chest and Heart; Rheu¬ 
matism of the Heart; Old Chronic Palpitations of the 
Heart. 

Cramps, Spasms, Convulsions 

For Convulsions of children or adults with Loss of 
Consciousness; Spasms or Convulsions of children from 
the slightest cause; Convulsions of children from Teeth¬ 
ing, Fright or Mental Excitement; Cramps or Spasms of 
single limbs; St. Vitus’ Dance, with Twitching, Jerking 
or Strange Motions of single features, muscles or parts; 
Hysterical Spasms or Hysteria. 


No. 33) 
for j 


PRACTICAL HINTS IN USING THE REMEDIES 


503 


No. 34 ( Sore Throat and Quinsy; 

for ^ Ulcerated Sore Throat 

For Tonsilitis, Ulcerated or Enlarged Tonsils; Painful, 
Difficult, Impeded Deglutition. 

No. 35 / Chronic Congestions; Headaches 

for j and Eruptions 

For Habitual Headaches; Heat and Fullness of the 
Head; Headaches of children; Difficult Teething of 
children; Scurf and Eruption on the Head, of young- 
children; Liability to Take Cold from Slight Exposure. 

No. 40 I Insomnia, Sleeplessness, Wakefulness, 

for f Restlessness and Nervousness 

In the past it has been almost an axiom that anything 
which would produce sleep must necessarily be a dope or 
at least a bromide. However, No. “40” works on an 
entirely different principle, the principle of Homeopathy. 

Homeopathy, as you know, depends for its action on 
the natural reactions of the body. When anything 
abnormal happens to the body whether it is a cut finger, 
a cold in the head or eating some poisonous substance, the 
body immediately starts to react to the accident and 
eventually in most cases the protective reaction overcomes 
the accident and the person gets well. 

If we did not have this protective reaction, every 
accident, no matter how small, would eventually kill us. 

In Homeopathy, we give a medicine, which, if taken in a 
large dose would produce the same symptoms that 
the person has. But this medicine is given in such 
qantity and form that the direct action of the drug is 
negligible, and, what it really does is to create a reaction 
of the body to this drug. In this way if the person is 
already sick we speed up the reactions so they overcome 
the disease more quickly than without the medicine. 


504 PRACTICAL HINTS IN USING THE REMEDIES 

In the case of insomnia, instead of giving a dope to 
cause what appears to be sleep we really give a dose of the 
opposite, namely a stimulant, but this is given in such 
quantity and form that the stimulating effect is negligible 
and the reaction takes place very quickly and tlie person 
quiets down and goes to sleep. 

Since this sleep is not produced by the drug but by the 
natural reaction of the person to the drug; the sleep 
produced is natural, healthy and refreshing sleep. There 
is no dope or bromide used and there can be no danger 
of getting a “habit.” 

Number “Forty” Induces Repose, and Natural, Re¬ 
freshing Sleep. 

No Narcotic, No Opiate, No Dope, No habit forming 
Drugs, Strictly Homeopathic. 

Take six pellets at bed time, or hourly, if wakeful 
during the night. A cracker and a glass of warm milk 
at bed time, draws the blood from the head, accelerating 
the action of Number “40.” 

Grip, Grippe, La Grippe, Influenza 

For Hay Fever; Flowing Eyes and Nose, Coryza; 
Sneezing, Cough; Feverishness, Restlessness, Irritability; 
Heat or Dryness of Throat, Thirst; Pain and Soreness 
in Head, Back and Lungs; General Prostration and 
Despondency. For La Grippe, or Epidemic Influenza. 
Colds which are obstinate, that “hang on” and do not 
yield to treatment find relief from No. 77. For extreme 
fever, alternate with No. 1; for Violent Cough or Chest 
Pains alternate with No. 7. But in general, the No. 77 
is sufficient. 

First Symptoms. —Coryza or nasal irritation or dis¬ 
charge, cough , sore throat, headache, backache; and general 
depression. 

More Serious Symptoms. —Pain in head, back, chest, or 
limbs, sometimes of sudden and Prostrating neuralgic 


No. 77 [ 
for \ 



PRACTICAL HINTS IN USING THE REMEDIES 505 

character; sometimes cerebral excitement; even delirium; 
extreme prostration, languor or debility, depression of mind, 
even after the first violence of the attack has passed 
away, bronchitis or bronco-pneumonia may become serious 
complications. 

“Rose,” “-Hay,” “Autumn” or “Peach Catarrh. 
For this, to which some persons are remarkably sus¬ 
ceptible (coming on annually, generally between the 20th 
of August and first of October), No. 77 is an invaluable 
remedy. Taken early, days before the attack, continued 
persistently four times a day, it relieves the sneezing, 
lacrymation and asthma, and by its continued use, from 
season to season, tends to lesson the liability of the disease. 

Moderation in the use of coffee and tobacco; avoidance 
of exposure; keeping warm and using only light and 
easily digestible food, will greatly aid the beneficial action 
of No. 77. 

No. 24 Tonic Tablets will be found beneficial during 
convalescence after any illness. 


Dr. Humphreys’ Remedies 

Directions with eacli vial in five Languages 

English, German, Spanish, Portuguese and French 

No. FOR 

1 Fevers, Congestions, Inflammations 

2 Worms, Worm Fever or Worm Disease 

3 Colic, Crying and Wakefulness of Infants 

4 Diarrhea, of Children and Adults 

5 Dysentery, Gripings, Bilious Colic 

6 Cholera Morbus, Vomiting 

7 Coughs, Colds, Bronchitis 

8 Toothache, Faceache, Neuralgia 

9 Headache, Side Headache, Vertigo 
lO Dyspepsia, Indigestion, Weak Stomach 
1 1 Suppressed Menses or Scanty 

12 Leucorrhea or Profuse Menses 

13 Croup, noarse Cough, Laryngitis. 

14 Eczema, Eruptions, Erysipelas. 

15 Rheumatism, Lumbago. 

16 Malaria, Fever and Ague 

1 7 Piles, Blind or Bleeding, External, Internal 

18 Ophthalmia, Sore or Inflamed Eyes 

19 Catarrh, Influenza, Cold in the Head 

20 Whooping Cough, Spasmodic Cough 

21 Asthma, Oppressed, Difficult Breathing 

22 Ear Discharge, Earache 

23 Swellings and Enlarged Glands 

24 General Debility, “Tonic Tablets” 

25 Dropsy, Fluid Accumulations 

26 Nausea, Vomiting, Sea-Sickness 

27 Disorders of the Kidney and Urinary System 

28 Nervous Prostration 

29 Sore Mouth, Canker, Fever Blisters 

30 Urinary Incontinence, Wetting Bed 
3 1 Painful Menses, Pruritus 

32 Disorders of the Heart, Palpitations 

33 Spasms or Convulsions 

34 Sore Throat and Quinsy 

35 Chronic Congestions, Headache 

40 Induces Repose and Natural Refreshing Sleep 
77 Grip, La Grippe, Grippe 


Sold By Druggists 

Humphreys , Homeopathic Medicine Company 

Corner William and Ann Streets 
NEW YORK 



FAMILY CHESTS. 

No. X Case, polished wood, lock and key, contains 36 Vials of Remedies, 
complete assortment, with Dr. Humphreys’ Mentor (500 pages)... $ 10.OC 
No. 5 Case, contains 20 Vials most used Remedies, with Mentor 500 

pages. $5.00 

No. 13 Case, polished wood, lock and key. contains 36 large screwtop 
flasks Remedies, complete assortment, with Mentor .$20.00 

No. 14 • Case, contains 12 large screwtop flasks Remedies, with Mentor 

. $9.00 


MEDICINES BY MAIL OR EXPRESS. 

FIRST APPLY AT YOUR DRUG STORE 

Dr. Humphreys’ Remedies from a single vial to a full case or box, sent 
prepaid to any address on receipt of price. 

Send post office money order, express money order, or register the letter 
for safety. 

Change in Post Office regulations now allow 
PARCEL POST C. O. D. 

If you cannot obtain from your druggist any article mentioned 
in this book—we will send it C. O. D. (collect on delivery) by 
Parcel Post. 


CAUTION. 

We caution our customers against purchasing our Remedies in bottles 
unwrapped and unsealed, or from having vials refilled by dealers, as we 
cannot be responsible for the medicines purchased in such cases. 

Humphreys’ Homeopathic Medicine Co., Corner William and Ann Streets, 
New York. 
















Humphreys’ Tonic Tablets 

No. 24 for General Debility 

A USEFUL TONIC 

For Loss of Appetite 

Weak or impaired Digestion 

Loss of strength after long illness 
Debility following Malaria 

Physical exhaustion from Overwork 
Mental Fatigue 

After effects of Grip or other illness 


Contains nothing harmful nor injurious 


Price 30c. and $1.00, at Drug Stores, or sent on receipt 
of price, or C. O. D. Parcel Post. 


HUMPHREYS' HOMEO. MEDICINE CO. 

Corner William and Ann Streets 


NEW YORK 





“ 40 ” 

INDUCES 

SLEEP 

Dr. Humphreys’ Number “Forty” Induces Repose, and 
Natural, Refreshing Sleep. For Insomnia, Sleeplessness, Wake¬ 
fulness, Restlessness. 

No Narcotic, No Opiate, No Dope, No habit forming Drugs, 
Strictly Homeopathic. 

The Reason 

Number “Forty” depends for its action on the natural 
reactions of the body. 

Whenever an accident happens, whether a cold or a cut 
finger, etc.; the body reacts to this and eventually overcomes it. 
If this does not take place every accident might prove fatal. 

In Number “Forty” we give a medicine, which, in the crude 
drug would be a stimulent; but, we give it in such quantity and 
form, that the stimulating effect is negligible, the reaction 
commences almost immediately and the person quiets down and 
goes to sleep. 

Since this sleep is not produced by a drug but by the natural 
reaction to the remedy, the sleep produced is natural, healthy and 
refreshing, and there can be no danger of “habit”. 

Price, 30c. and $1.00, at Drug Stores, or sent on receipt of 
price, or C.O.D. Parcel Post. 

Humphreys’ Homeo. Medicine Company, 156 William Street, 
New York. 


.gjMARVELg' 

WITCH HAZEL. 


This Medicine is a pure distillation of the 
well known shrub Hamamelis Virginica, com¬ 
monly known as the Witch Hazel. 

As a family remedy, always useful, always ready, 
never injurious; always reliable, does not poison or 
irritate, stain or injure. Is used as an external remedy 
or a lotion to apply. 

For Wounds, Bruises, Contusions; Burns or Scalds; 

Piles, Internal or External; Rheumatic Lame¬ 
ness, Soreness or Stiffness; Excoriated or 
Sore Nipples; Sunburns; Mosquito Bites; 

Corns, Sore Feet; Sore Throat; A 
toilet article for shaving or 
bathing 


Price 30c. 60c. and $1.00, at Drug Stores, or sent on receipt 
of price, or C. 0. D. Parcel Post. 

HUMPHREYS’ HOMEO. MEDICINE CO. 

Corner William and Ann Streets 
NEW YORK 




HUMPHREYS’ 


WITCH HAZEL OINTMENT 

(Compound) 

for 

Piles or Hemorrhoids 

Blind or Bleeding, External or Internal and Itching 
or Bleeding of the Rectum. 

In bottles, in three sizes, 30c., 60c. and $1.00 



Price, SO Cents 


At all Drug Stores, or sent on receipt of price, 
or C.O.D. Parcel Post. 


HUMPHREYS’ HOMEO. MEDICINE CO. 

Cor. William and Ann Streets, New York 



Humphreys’ 

Veterinary 

Remedies 


For Animals of Every Kind 



HUMPHREYS’ 
VETERINARY MANUAL 

a book of 300 pages, describing the diseases of the farm 
animals, Horses, Cattle, Sheep, Dogs and Poultry, and 
their treatment by Humphreys’ Veterinary Remedies, 

Sent Free on Request 

HUMPHREYS’ HOMEO. MEDICINE CO. 

Corner William and Ann Sts. 

NEW YORK 



Humphreys’ 

Veterinary 

Remedies 



Are particularly adapted to the treatment 
of pets of all kinds 


Efficient 
Economical 
Easily Given 



Reliable 

Convenient 

Harmless 


If you have a pet in your family which you are fond of 
and want to keep happy and in good health, send to us 
for instruction for its care and treatment. 

Book on Dogs Mailed Free 

HUMPHREYS’ MANUAL con¬ 
tains directions for the care of 

DOGS, CATS, MONKEYS, 
PARROTS and CANARY BIRDS 

sent free on request, write for it 
to-day. 

HUMPHREYS' HOMEO. MEDICINE COMPANY 

Cor. William and Ann St«., New York. 








LIST OF 

HUMPHREYS’ 

VETERINARY REMEDIES 



A A For Fevers, Congestions and Inflamma- 

tions, as of the Lungs or Pleura, Inflammation of 
the Head or Brain, Eyes, Liver or Belly. 


D D For Diseases of the Tendons, Ligaments, 

"•^•Joints; Strains, Stiffness, Lameness, Rheumatism. 

C r For Diseases of the Glands, Discharges 

• from the Nose; Swelled Glands, Distemper in Dogs. 

1)1) For Worm Diseases; eradicates them 

!/•!/• from the system; Long, Round or Pin Worms. 

E E For Diseases of the Air-passages, Cough, 

• Influenza, hard or difficult Breathing. 


F C For Colic, Diarrhea, or Dysentery; 

• * • Liquid or Bloody Dung. 

G r To prevent Miscarriage, arrest Hemor- 

• U. r hage; throw off the after-birth. 

UU For Diseases of the Kidneys, Bladder, 

ll*Il« or Urinary Passages; as Inflammation, or Scanty, 
difficult, painful, suppressed, or bloody Urination. 


I I For Cutaneous Diseases or Eruptions, 

• *• Eczema. 


K For Diseases of Digestion, Out of Con- 

•dition, Jaundice; Indigestion, Paralysis. 

Price 60c. per Bottle. 

Humphreys’ Homeo. Medicine Co. 

Cor. William and Ann Sts., New York 








Humphreys’ 
Veterinary Remedies 



PRICES OF VETERINARY REMEDIES 

Single Bottle, Small.$ .60 


Single Bottle, Medium. 2.00 

Single Bottle, Large.•._ 3.00 

PRICES OF STABLE CASES: 

Stable Case, Small, Handle, Lock and Key, containing Veterinary 
Manual, Ten bottles Remedies, Jar Veterinary Oil, and Medicator, 
complete. 7.00 

Stable Case, Medium, nandle, Lock and Key, containing Veterinary 
Manual, Ten medium size bottles Remedies, Jar Veterinary Oil. 
and Medicator, complete. 20.00 

Stable Case, Large, Handle, Lock and Key, containing Veterinary 
Manual, Ten large size bottles Remedies, Jar Veterinary Oil, 
and Medicator, complete. 30.00 

Jar Veterinary Oil..... 1.00 

Humphreys’ Veterinary Manual (Bound). .50 

Medicator (for administering Remedies). .25 


Sold by all druggists, or sent on receipt of price, or C. O. D. Parcel Post. 

HUMPHREYS’ HOMEO. MEDICINE CO 

Cor. William and Ann Streets, New York 















































































PAGE, 


Abdomen, Dropsy of the.4S7 

Abscesses.230 

Acne.223 

Aged People, Diet of.44 

Ague.105 

*' Dumb. 201 

Air-passages, Diseases of.289-325 

“ purity of.....124 

" impurities of. 124 

See Ventilation. 

Albumen...62 

Albuminuria ... .399 

Alcohols.117-119 

“ effects on heart.118 

" “ “ digestion.118 

Aliment allowed under Horn, treatment 157 
forbidden “ “ “ 158 

Alimentary Tract, Diseases of.333-398 

Allspice.102 

Almonds. 90 

Alopecia, after Confinement. v .454 

Amenorrhea.419 

Anasarca.486-487 

Angina Pectoris.326 

Ani, Prolapsus.392 

Anorexia.347 

Anthrax.227 

Aphonia. 289 

Appetite, want of.347 

Apples.97 

Apricots.93 

Apoplexy.237 

Apthae, in Infants.463 

Arrow-root...91 

Arthritis.473 

Asparagus. 95 

Ascaris Lumbricoides.490 

Ascites.487-488 

Asthma,.315 

** Hay.298 

Atrophy, of Infants.467 

Autumnal Malaria.200 

Back, Rheumatism in.472 

*' pains in, during Pregnancy.445 

Bacon, Nutritive value of.,.54 

Baking of Meats. . ....108 

Banting’s cure for Corpulence.43 


PAGE. 

Barley. 86 

“ -Water. 86 

Bath, the Sitz.152 

Bathing, too much.135 

“ Cold.138 

“ Warm.137 

“ Sea.137 

Cautions as to.138 

Baths, permissable temperatures in. ...150 

" -Vapor, use of the.151 

“ how to give. 151 

" Warm.149 

Beans.89 

Bedroom, Ventilation of.125 

Beef, Nutritive Value of... 49 

“ -Tea Extract.60 

“ proper uses of.61 

Beer. 117 

Beverages. 110-120 

Non Intoxicating.110 

Bilious Colic.356,357 

“ Fever.174 

Biliousness.348 

Biscuits, Wheaten. 85 

Blackberry. 99 

Bladder, Catarrh of.408 

Inflammation of.404 

Bleeding, from Lungs.318 

“ Stomach.362 

" “ Nose.483 

Blood, Composition of the.59 

“ salts in.5ft 

“ to Head, Rush of.?4d 

“ -Shot Eyes.275 

“ vomiting, from Lungs.362 

“ “ “ Stomach.362 

“ from Nose.483 

Boils.226 

“ in Ear.284 

Boiling, proper method of.106 

Boots, evil effects of high-heeled.135 

Bowels, Falling of.392 

“ Looseness of.378 

Brain, Dropsy of.244 

Chronio.245 

“ Inflammation of...241 

Brandy.117 

Bread, stale, best for health. 8 & 



































































































GENERAL INDEX. 


PAGE. 

Bread, toasting of.84 

Breast, Catarrh of.303 

" Inflammation of, p,fter Confinement 456 

41 -Pang.. 326 

Preparation rt before Confinement 448 

Breath, offensive... 356 

Bright’s Disease of Kidney...401, 402 

Broiling.108 

Bronchial irritation.301 

Bronchitis, Acute. 301 

of Children.303 

Broths, rish.69 

44 Mutton. 51 

Veal . 51 

*' Vegetable. 96 

Preparation of.96 

Buckwheat flour.87 

Bunions. 231, 232 

Butter, Constituents of. ..78, 79 

“ uses ol . 79 

•* qualities of good.79 

Buttermilk . 77 

nutritive value of.45 

Cabbage.95 

Cale Noir .115 

44 au Lait.115 

Calculus.407 

Canker sore month.346 

Capsicum.102 

Carbuncle.227 

Carrots.94 

Cassia.102 

Casein.80 

Carditis..327 

Catarrh, Acute.294 

44 .of Bladder.406 

44 of Breast.303 

• Chronic. ....297 

44 Fall.....298 

4 Hay. 298 

M Peach. 298 

Cauliflower. 95 

Celery. 95 

Cereals.......82 

Cessation of Menses.426 

Change of Life.426 

Cinnamon. .102 

Circulatory System, diseases of.326 

Cheese, as an article of diet.80 

44 Cream-.81 

44 toasted.* • • • • 81 

Cherries.98 

Chest, Congestion of.314 

44 Dropsy of. 487 

Chestnuts. 90 


Ciuchen-PoA • «•«.•••.•• ••••••• • ••••••• 208 


PAGE. 

Chilblains.....233 

Child-crowing.265 

Children, clothing of. . .135 

44 Fever of.201 

44 Food of young. 42 

Chill-fever.200 

Chlorosis.420 

Chocolate, nutritive value of..<,....116 

44 Miss Evart’s receipt for preparing 117 

Cholera, Asiatic.365 

Diarrhea.372 

44 Engli sh.. . .... .379 

44 Infantum...382 

44 Morbus. .364 

Chorea..257 

Chronic Catarrh. 297 

“ Ophthalmia.273 

Clavus.231 

Cleanliness, in cooking.109 

in sick-room.148 

Clergyman’s sore throat...289, 344 

Climacteric, the Grand.426 

Clothing, purposes of.132 

44 varieties of.133 

44 relative values of different 

kinds. .133 

44 shape of.134 

44 change of.134 

44 cleansing of.134 

44 of children.135 

Clotted Credm.76 

Cloves.102 

Coals on the fire, noiseless way of putt¬ 
ing, in sick-room...142 

Cocoa, nutritive value of.116 

Coffee. Ill 

“ making of. 115 

Cold bathing.136 

44 Common...-301 

44 weather, food for. 44 

Colic.356 

44 Flatulent.357 

44 Lead.358 

44 Painter’s.358 

Corn, Indian.87 

44 Green.88 

44 Hulled.88 

44 meal.87 

Corns.*231 

Corpulence, Banting’s cure for.43 

44 diet for. 43 

Coryza, of Infants.462 

Cough. 290 

44 Whooping..291 

Coup-de-soleil.249 


Condensed Milk.18 














































































































GENERAL INDEX. 


PAGE. 

Condiments, dietetic value of; and rules 


for using.102 

Condy’s Fluid.144 

Congestion ..240 

“ of Chest.314 

“ of Head.240 

Conjunctivitis.271 

Constipation. 389 

“ apples in, use of.98 

“ during Pregnancy.442 

“ after labor.453 

“ in Infants.464 

Consumption, Laryngeal.305 

Pulmonary.320 

“ Pulse in, The.321 

“ Temperature in the.321 

Contagious Diseases.144 

Convulsions.247 

“ in Infants.466 

Costiveness.387 

Crabs. 70 

Cranberry. 99 

Cream-Cheese.81 

“ Clotted. 76 

“ Constituents of. 76 

Cresses, Water.96 

Croup.265,267 

“ Spasmodic.265 


Crying of Infants.462 

Cucumber. 96 

Curative Measures, Accessory.149 

Curds. 77 

Currants. 99 

Cystitis.404 

Chronic.405 

Deafness.283, 286 

Debility, General.477 

Delaying Menses.419 

Delivery, Treatment before.448 

“ Remedies before.449 

“ False Pains before.449 

Diabetes.415 

Diarrhea. 378 

“ Cholera- .372 

“ of Infants.464 

Diet, see food. 

Diet of the Sick.157 

“ of Infants, Supplementary.460 

“ Milk-, in Bright’s Disease.403 

“ of Nurses.460 

Diphtheria.336 


Disease, How to interpret its symptoms 158 


PAGE. 

Disease, Pain in. 163 

“ Skin in, The.164 

“ Temperature in, The.160-161 

“ Tongue in, The...163 

“ Urine in, The.165 

Diseases of Air-Passages.289-325 

“ of Alimentary Tract.333 

“ of Circulatory System.326 

“ of Ears.281-288 

“ of Eyes.271 

“ of Head .235-270 

“ of Heart, see Heart. 

of Infants.461-467 

“ of Nervous System.235-270 

“ of Pregnancy.441-448 

“ of Urinary Organs.399 

“ of Various Organs and Regions 468 

of Women.418 

Disinfectants, Use of...140 

Disinfection of Room, etc., in Conta¬ 
gious cases.145 

Dizziness.237 

Doses, Repetition of. 168 

*• of Remedies . 168-169 

Drainage, of dwellings.128 

Drinks, allowed under Horn, treatment 157 

Dripping, use as a food.81, 82 

Dropsy,.485-488 

Dwellings, Healthy. 127 

drainage of.128 

sewerage of.128 

“ ventilation of..'.129 

“ surroundings of.127 

“ location of.127 

“ cellars of.128 

“ cleansing of.129 

“ temperature of.129 

Dysentery.384 

Dysmenorrhea.423 

Dyspepsia.349 

Dysuria, during Pregnancy.442 

Duck’s-Eggs, Nutritive Value of.65 

Dumb-Ague.201 

Earache.281 

Ears, Care of the. 287 

“ Boils in.284 

“ Discharge from.285 

“ Diseases of the .281-288 

“ Eczema of.280 

“ Furuncle in.284 

“ Inflammation of.282 

“ Noises in. 286 

Eating, Rules for.352-354 

Eczema.220 

“ of Ears.281 

“ in Infants.............463 














































































































GENERAL INDEX. 


PAGE. 

Eggs, Duck’s, Nutritive Value of.66 

“ Nutritive Value of......62 

** Keeping of.64, 65 

“ Medical uses of.63 

“ Poached, Method of preparing.. 65 

“ and Milk....64 

“ -Custard, plain. 64 

Emaciation in Consumption.321 

Encephalitis.241 

Enemeta... 149 

English Cholera..379 

Enlargement of Liver.394 

Enteric Fever. 177 , 182 

Enuresis. 414 

Epilepsy.253 

Erethic Fever.172 

Eruption, in Infants.462 

of Small-Pox.206 

of Typhus Fever.179 

Erysipelas.211, 280 

Excoriations, in Infants.464 

Exercise.129 

Extracts of Meat.60 

“ of Beef-Tea.60 

Eyelids, Inflammation of.274 

Eyes.271 

“ Blood-shot.275 

“ Inflammation of.271 

“ Weeping.275 

Face, Swelled.264 

Facial Paralysis.252 

Failing Sight.276 

Fainting, during Pregnancy.443 

Fall Catarrh. ;293 

Falling out of the Hair.454 

“ of Womb. . 430, 

Fat persons, Food proper for.43 

“ Fish.68, 69 

Felon....228 

Fevers. 171 

“ Rules in Treatment of.171-172 

“ and Ague.195 

** Bilious.174 

“ of Children.201 

“ Erethic.....172 

" Enteric, distinction between, and 

Typhus Fever...177 

" Gastric.174 

" Inflammatory.173 

“ Intermittent.195 

“ Malaria.195 

“ Reml ttent. 200 

“ Scarlet.2C2-204 

44 Simple.1~2 

• Typhoid. ...............182 


PAGE. 

Fevers, Typhus.. 

“ distinction between, and 

Enteric Fever.177 

“ The pulse in.178 

'• Yellow.. 

Fibrin, Artificial... 64 

Fig.. 

Filters. 123 

“ Domestic, how to make a.123 

Fish, Nutritive Value. 67 

“ Signs of good. 68 

“ Methods of Cooking. 68 

“ boiling, proper method of.106 

“ Broth.69 

“ Shell-, Nutritive Value of.69 

Fits.247 

Flannel, Use of....134 

Flatulence. 350 

Flour, Buckwheat.87 

“ Oat.85 

“ Rye.87 

“ Wheaten.82, 84, 85 

Food, its use.36-45 

“ its Nutritious Values.45-104 

“ its preparation, Methods of. ..104-110 

“ Animal. 45 

“ for Aged People.44 

“ for Children . s. 42 

“ for Cold Weather. .44 

“ the Care of, in Sick-room.110, 144 

“ for Fat People.43 

“ for Infants.41 

“ for Lean People.44 

“ for Laboring Men.„.42 

“ for Students. 42 

“ for Warm Weather.44 

“ Vomiting of, by Infants.462 

Fomentations.149, 153, 154 

Foot-Bath, The Hot, Uses of.151 

Fowl, The flesh of...66 

** The blood of.67 

Frost-bites.233 

Frozen limbs.233 

Fruits, Nutritive Values of..97-100, 110 

Frying, Proper Method of.109 

Furuncle.226 

“ in Ear..234 

Gall Stones.397 

Gastralgia.354 

Gastric Derangement.348 

“ Fever.174 

Gelatine.55, 62 

General Debility.477 

“ Paralysis.252 

Gin.117 

Ginger...... 102 















































































































general, index. 


PAGE. 

Gingerbread. 85 


Gooseberries. 99 

Gout.473 

Grapes. 98 

Gravel.407 

Green Corn . 88 

Green Sickness.420 

Grippe, The.295 

Gruel, Oat-meal. 86 

Gum Arabic, uses of.100 

Gymnastics, Home.130 

Hsemoptysis.318 

Hair. Loss of, after Confinement.454 

Halitosis.356 

Hardened Wax in Ear.282 

Hare, Flesh of, Nutritive Value of.67 

Hashed Meats.107 

Hay Asthma (Catarrh or Fever).298 

Head, Diseases of.235-270 

“ Congestion to.240 

Headache. 235 

“ in Females.236 

“ •* during menses.424 

Healthy Dwellings.127 

Hearing, Affections of.280-288 

“ Defective...,..283 

Heart, Diseases of.,327-332 

“ Angina... 326 

“ Carditis.. —327 

M Chronic diseases of.....331 

■ 4 ‘ Endocarditis......327 

“ Functional Diseases. 330 

Irregular Action of. 329 

“ Organic diseases.330 

“ Palpitation.329 

“ Pericarditis .. 327 

Heart-burn.350„ 351 

Heat-Stroke. 249 

Hematuria. .. 416 

Hematemesis.362 

Hemiplegia... .—251 

Hemorrhage of Lungs.318 

“ Vicarious.363 

Hemorrhoids . 387 

Hepatitis. 393 

Herpes, Hives.214-215, 281 

Hiccough.351 

High Blood Pressure. 240 

Hoarseness .289 

Hominy .87, 88 

Honey...... 101 


PAGE. 


Hulled Corn.88 

Hygiene.35-139, 389 

Hydrocephalus.244 

“ Chronic.245 

Hypochondriasis.269 

Hysteria.267, 268-269, 432 

“ during Pregnancy.443 

Icterus..396 

Impetigo.281 

Incubus.351 

Indian Corn.87 

Indigestion.348, 349 

Infantile Paralysis. 252 

Infants, Apthoe of.463 

“ A trophy of.467 

“ After Birth, Treatment of.459 

“ Cold in Head.462 

“ Constipation in. .464 

“ Convulsions.466 

“ Crying of.462 

“ Diarrhea of.464 

“ Diet of, Supplementary.41, 460 

“ Diseases of. 461-467 

“ Eczema.463 

“ Eruptions of.462 

“ Eyes of, Inflammation.461 

“ Excoriations of.464 

“ Intertrigo, see Excoriations. 

“ Meconium, Expulsion of.459 

“ Milk-Crusts in.......463 

“ Paralysis of.262 

“ Regurgitation of Food.462 

“ Teething derangements.. ..465 

“ Swelling of Head.459 

“ Thrush in. 463 

“ Treatment of, after birth ......459 

“ Wakefulness of.462 

“ Wasting of... .467 

“ Weaning of.. 461 

In-growing Nails. 229 

Inhalations, Nature and uses of......155-156 

Injections, see Enemcta. 

Inflammation of Bladder.404 

of Eyes, In Infants...461 

of Eyelids ..274 

of Kidneys.„.400 

of Labia.432 

of Larynx. 305 

of Liver. 393 

“ of Lungs.311 

Inflammatory Fever. 173 

Influenza.295 

Insolation. 249 

Insomnia.481 

Internal Swelling of Organs, after Con¬ 
finement........... .455 
















































































































general index. 


PAGE. 

Intermittent Fever.195 

Intertrigo, see Excoriation. 

Invermination, see Worms. 

Isinglass. 69 

Itch.225 

Jaundice.396 

Jelly, Tapioca.91 

Kidneys, Diseases of.399-417 

Inflammation of.400, 405 

Kousso, for Worms.492 

Labia, Inflammation of.432 

Labor.450 

“ after treatment.452 

“ Alopecia, after.454 

“ Breasts, preparation of, before. ..448 

“ Inflammation of.448 

“ “ after.456 

“ Constipation during.453 

“ Convulsions in.451 

“ Cramps in.451 

“ Falling of Hair during.454 

“ Inflammation ot Breasts after.. .456 

of Womb after... .455 

“ Leucorrhea after.455 

“ Lochial Discharge after.454 

“ Mastitis after.457 

“ Milk, Fever after.453 

“ Suppressed after.453 

“ Nipples, Excoriation of.456 

“ Ovarian Dropsy, after.458 

“ Perspiration, after.457 

“ Scanty, or Suppressed Milk after 453 

“ Swelling of Organs, after,.455 

“ Tedious.451 

“ Weakness after.457 

Laboring Men, Proper Food for.42 

Lamb, Nutritive Value of.53 

Laryngeal, Consumption.305 

Laryngismus Stridulus.265 

Laryngitis ..305 

Lead Colic. 358 

Lean Fish. . 68 , 69 

“ People, Proper Food for,.44 

Leeks.96 

Lemon. 98 

“ -juice. 98 

Lettuce.96 

Leucorrhea.428, 520 

after Labor.455 

Life, Average of.139 

“ effect of occupation upon.138 

Lime-j'uice.98 

Liver, Acute Inflammation of.393 

“ Complaints. 393 

“ Enlargement of, Chronic.394 

Lobster.70 


PAG®. 

Lockj'aw.258 

Lochial Discharge, after Labor.454 

Lung-Fever.303 

Lungs, Bleeding from...318 

“ Inflammation of... .311 

Lumbago.........472 

“ use of poultices in.153 

Macaroni. . . 85 

“ Diphtheria.. ..336 

Maple Sugar. ,,...101 

Malaria. 195 

Mastitis.456 

Measles. 204 

Meat, Boiling of.106 

“ Baking of..108 

“ Broiling of.108 

“ Cooking of. Proper.105 

“ “ Loss by.105 

“ Dried.109 

“ Extracts of.60 

“ Fat. 48 

“ Fluid Extracts of.60, 61 

“ Good, Characteristics of.47 

“ Hashing of.107 

“ Lean.48 

“ Roasting of.106 

“ Salted.109 

“ Solid Preparations of.61 

“ Steaming of.106 

“ Stewing of.107 

“ “ in Vapor.107 

“ Tinned.109 

Medicines, How to Select, Prepare and 

take.168-169 

Melons.99 

Meningitis.241 

Menopause, The.426 

Menses, The.418 

“ Cessation.426 

“ Delaying.419 

“ Frequent, too.425 

“ Painful.423 

“ Profuse, too.425 

“ Pregnancy, during.441 

“ Scanty.421 

“ Suppressed.421 

“ “ after Labor.453 

“ Tardy.....419 

Menstruation, see Menses .418 

Metorrhagia.425 

Milk, Artificial Substitute for Women’s 72 

“ Condensed. 78 

“ Constituents of. 72 

“ Cow’s.73, 74 

“ “ methods of using. 75 














































































































GENERAL INDEX. 


PAGE. 

Milk-Crust.220, 463 

“ Diet in Bright’s Disease.403 

“ and Eggs. 64 

“ -Fever, after Labor.453 

“ in Fevers.71 

“ as a Food. 71 

Molasses.101 

Morning-Sickness.441 

Mouth, Canker Sore.346 

“ Scurvy of.346 

Mucilage, Medical use of. 100 

Muffins. 85 

Mushrooms, description of eatable.96 

Mustard-Cress.96 

Mutton-Broth.52 

“ Nutritive Value of.51 

“ Boiling, Proper way of.106 

Mumps.208 

Nails, Affections of the.229 

Nasal Bleeding.483 

Nausea.360 

Neck, Stiff.472 

Nephritis. 400 

“ Chronic. 402 

Nerve-Pain.259 

Nervous Prostration.477 

System, Diseases of.235-270 

Nettle-rash.215 

Neuralgia...259 

Nightingale’s, Miss, Rules for the Sick¬ 
room.143, 144 

Nightmare .351, 482 

Nipples, Excoriated, after Labor.456 

Noises in the Ear3.286 

Nose, Diseases of.482 

“ Bleeding of.483 

“ Swelling and Redness of.482 

“ Ulceration of .. .483 

Nurse, The needed Qualities in a.147 

“ Diet for.460 

Nursing and Care of the Sick.140-157 

Nutmeg,.102 

Nuts. 90 

Oats. 85 

“ -flour.85 

“ -meal Porridge.86 

“ 4# -Gruel.86 

Occupation, affect of, upon Health, etc. 138 
Offal of Animals, Nutritive Value of.... 55 

Offensive Breath.356 

Onions.95 

Onychia. 229 

Ophthalmia.271 

“ Chronic.273 

Oranges.98 

Otorrhea.285 


PAGE. 

Ovarian Dropsy, after Labor.458 

Oysters...69, 70 

#i Stew.71 

“ Raw.70 

Pain in Disease.163 

Painful Menstruation.423 

Painter’s Colic.358 

Palpitation of Heart.329 

Palsy.250 

“ Wasting.252 

See Paralysis . 

Paralysis.250 

“ Facial.252 

“ General, of the Insane.252 

Infantile.252 

Paralytic Stroke.251 

Paraplegia.251 

Parotides.*.208 

Parsnips. 94 

Parturition, see Labor . 

Peaches.98 

Pears.98 

Peas.90 

Pemphigus.281 

Pepper.101, 102, 103 

Pernicious Malarial Fever.201 

Pernio. 233 

Perspiration, after Labor, Excessive. .457 

Pertussis.205 

Pharyngitis.344 

Phthisis Pulmonalis. 320 

Pig’s feet, Nutritive Value of.58 

Piles.387 

Pimples..223 

Pine Apple.99 

Pleurisy.307 

“ False.310 

Pleurodynia.310 

Plums.98 

Pneumonia.311 

Poached Eggs, Mexican Method of pre¬ 
paring.65 

Pork, Nutritive Value of.53 

“ Measly. 53 

Porrigo Favosa. 218 

Porridge, Oat-meal.86 

Porter . ..117 

Potatoes.92 

“ choice of.v.93 

“ preparation of.93 

“ Soup.93 

Poultices.149 

“ Bread..’..152 

“ Carrot.153 

Charcoal.153 

Linseed.152 

“ Uses of.153 














































































































GENERAL INDEX, 


PAGE. 


Pericarditis.327 

Poultry and Game, Nutritive Value of 66, 67 

Pregnancy.433-449 

Disorders of.441-448 

Constipation during.442 

Dysuria during.442 

Fainting during.443 

Hysteria during..443 

Menstruation during.441 

Miscarriage.445 

Morning-Sickness.441 

Pain of Back during.445 

Swelled Face during.444 

Toothache during.443 

Varices during.444 

Veins during, Swelled.444 

Professional Men, Proper Food for.42 

Profuse Menstruation.425 

Prolapsus Ano.388 

44 Uteri.430 

Pulmonary Consumption.320 

Hemorrhage.318 

Pulse, The.158 

44 in Consumption.321 

44 in Typhus Fever.178 

Quinsy.333 

Rabbit’s Flesh, Nutritive Value of.67 

Radishes. 94 

Raisins.98 

Raspberry.99 

Refrigerators, Care of.129 

Regurgitation of Food in Infants.462 

Relaxed Throat.344 

Uvula.336 

Respiration, The, in Disease.163 

Restlessness.482 

Remittent Fever.200 

Rheumatism.468 

Apples in. .... 97 

44 Asparagus in. 95 

" Chronic.471 

44 Lemons in.98 

44 Sciatic.473 

Rhubarb.95 

Rice.88-89 

44 -Water.89 

Ring-Worm.216 

Roasting, Method of. . .106 

Rose, The.211 

Round-Worm, The.490 

Rum.117 

Rye-flour. 87 

Sago.91 

St. Vitus* Dance.257 

Salmon. 69 

Salt.101, 102 


PAGE. 

Sausage, Nutritive Value of.58 

44 Black-pudding.59 

44 Prussian, The.58 

Savoys.95 

Scabies. 225 

Scalled Head... . .220 

Scarlet Fever.202-204 

Schools, Ventilation of.125 

Sciatica.473 

Scurvy of Mouth...346 

Sea-bathing.137 

Sea-Sickness.361 

Seat-Worm.488 

Sediment in Urine.407 

Sewerage of Dwellings.128 

Sheeps-Head, Nutritive Value of.56 

Shell-Fish, Nutritive Value of.69 

44 Disease caused by.69 

Shingles, The.214 

Sick, The, Diet of.157 

44 Cleanliness of.148 

44 Nursing and Care of.140-157 

Reading to.143 

44 Visits to.142 

Sick-Room, The.140 

Disinfection of.146 

44 Furniture of.141 

44 Light in.141,142 

44 Made pleasant.143 

Temperature of.143 

44 Ventilation of.140 

Signs and Symptoms of Disease, How to 

Interpret.158 

Sight, Weak or Failing.276 

44 Care of the.277 

Simple Fever.172 

Singultus.351 

Sitz-bath, The.152 

Skim-Milk...,. 76 

Skin, The, in Diseases.164 

44 Catarrhal Inflammation.220 

44 Diseases of.211-234 

Sleep.480 

Sleeplessness.480,481 

Small-Pox.205 

Sore Throat.333 

44 Clergyman’s.289 

Soup, Clam-.70 

“ Potato-.93 

44 Turtle-. 70 

Soups and Broths.107 

“ Preparations of.108 

















































































































GENERAL INDEX. 


PAGE. 

Spasms.247 

“ of Stomach.354 

Spasmodic Croup.265 

“ Distinction between, 

and Croup.266 

Spinach. 95 

Sponge-cakes.85 

Squinting.276 

Squirrel’s Flesh, Nutritive Value of.67 

Starch as food.39 

Steaming of Meat.106 

Stewing “ .107 

Stew, Oyster-. 71 

Stiff Neck.472 

Stitch in Side.310 

Stomach, Weak........349 

“ Pain in.354 

“ Spasms of..354 

Stone.407 

Strabismus.276 

Stranguary.412 

Strawberry. 99 

Students, Proper Food for.42 

Sugar...100 

“ of Milk.101 

•* Maple-: . .101 

** in Tea.113 

Sunlight.138 

“ Value to health of.126 

Bun-Fever. 249 

“ -Stroke.249 

Suppressed Menses.421 

“ Urination.413 

Sweating of the Feet.484 

Swelled Face.264 

“ during Pregnancy.444 

“ Internal, of Organs after Labor 455 

Swelling and Redness of Nose.482 

Syrup.101 

Symptoms of Diseases,How to Interpret 158 

Taenia Solium.491 

Tape-Worm.491 

Tapioca.91 

“ Jelly. 91 

Tardy Menses..419 

Tea, Nutritive Value of.Ill 

“ Classes of. 113 

** Constituents of.112 

*' How to make.112 

** Sugar in .113 

** use in Sick-room.... 114 

Teeth, Preservation of the....263 

Teething in Infants . 465 

Temperature, The Bodily ..160 

M in Consumption.321 


FAOM. 

Temperature in Typhoid Fever.186 

Tetanus ..268 

Tetter.214 

Thermometer, The use of in Bathing...149 

“ in Sick-room.160-161 

Thread-worm.488 

Throat, Clergyman’s Sore.289, 344 

“ Relaxed. 344 

“ Sore. 333 

“ Ulcerated.344 

Thrush, in Infants.463 

Tic-doloreux.259 

Tinea.216 

“ -Favosa.218 

Tinnitus Aurium.283 

Toasted Cheese.81 

Tobacco, Ill Effects of.120 

Tongue, Nutritive Value of.56 

“ The, in Disease.163 

Tonsillitis.333 

Toothache.262 

“ during Pregnancy.443 

Treacle.101 

Treatment of Infants.458 

Trichina in Pork. 54 

Tripe, Nutritive Value of....56 

Turnip.94 

Tussis.290 

Typhoid Fever.182 

“ Diet in.....190 

Typhus Fever.176 

“ Eruption in.179 

Ulcerated Throat.344 

Ulceration of Nose.48f 

Urinary Organs, Diseases of.39* 

Urine, The, in Disease.165,166 

Excessive Secretion of.415 

“ Healthy.165 

“ Specific Gravity of.166 

“ Blood in.416 

“ Incontinence of.414 

Urination, Difficult.406, 412, 413 

“ Suppressed.413 

Urticaria.215 

Uteri, Prolapsus.430 

Uvula, Relaxed.336 

Vaccination.206 

Vanilla. 102 

Varicella.208 

Varicose Veins..332 

during Pregnancy...... .444 

Varioloid. ....2t4 












































































































GENERAL INDEX, 


PAGE. 

Veal, Nutritive Value of. 51 

44 -Broth.51 

Vegetables.82 

Cooking of.108 

Vegetable-Broths. 96 

Veins, Varicose.*..*.332 

Venison, Nutritive Value of.54 

Ventilation.138 

of bedrooms.125 

of schools.125 

“ of public halls.126 

Vermicelli.— 85 

Vertigo.237 

Vicarious bleeding.363 

Vinegar.101, 102 

“ dietetic uses of.103 

Vomiting.360 

44 of blood. 362 

from Stomach.362 

“ from Lungs.362 

Wakefulness of Infants.462 

44 of Adults.482 

Warm Baths...137, 149 

44 Medical uses of.150 

44 Weather, Food for. 44 

Wasting of Infants .467 

44 -Palsy.252 

Water, constituents of.121 

44 in human body. 121 

44 qualities of good.121 

44 proper receptacles for.121 

44 purity of.123 

44 tests for purity of...122 

66 Boiling...122 

c Filters for............126 


Water, how to make filter for.123 

44 -Cress. 96 

Watchers in Illness.148 

Wax in Ears.282 

Weakness after Confinement.457 

44 of Sight.276 

of Stomach.349* 

Weaning of Infants.464 

Weather, Food suitable for cold; for 

warm. 44 

Weeping-Eyes.275 

Wetting the Bed.414 

Wheat, preparations of, dietetic value of 83 

Wheaten Biscuits.85 

Whey. 77 

44 medical uses of.77, 78 

Whisky...117 

Whites, The. 428 

Whitlow.228 

Whooping Cough.291 

44 44 Difference from 

Spasmodic Croup. .293 

Wind on Stomach.350 

Wind-Colic .357 

Womb, Inflammation of, after Confine¬ 
ment. 455 

44 Falling of the.430 

Women, Diseases of.418 

Worm, The Seat.488 

44 The Thread.488 

44 The Round.490 

44 The Tape. 491 

44 -Fever.493 

Worms.488-494 

44 The Eradication of.494 

Yellow Fever, The.19£ 


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